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TONGA
National Infrastructure Investment Plan 2013 -2023
This is a publication of His Majestys Government of the Kingdom of Tonga. This report was prepared by Glen DEste, Allison Clausen, David Hamilton, Pita Moala, and Kisione Tupou as individual consult ants under the guidance and support of the Government of Tonga and the Pacific Infrastructure Advisory Centre (PIAC) in Sydney, Australia. PIAC is an Asian Development Bank (ADB) administered regional technical assistance project co-financed by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). PIAC operates under the coordination of the Pacific Regional Infrastructure Facility (PRIF) a partnership for improved infrastructure in the Pacific Region between the ADB, AusAID, the European Commission (EC), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the New Zealand Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZMFAT), and the World Bank Group. The views expressed in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the ADB, its Board of Governors, or the governments they represent, or of any of the PRIF Partners. ADB or any of the above parties does not guarantee the accuracy of the data included in this publication and accepts no responsibility for any consequence of their use.
TONGA
National Infrastructure Investment Plan 2013 -2023
Table of Contents
Table of Contents.............................................................................................................................................i Abbreviations..................................................................................................................................................ii Exchange Rates...............................................................................................................................................iii Acknowledgments..........................................................................................................................................iv
Executive Summary...................................................................................................1
1. Context ................................................................................................................................ 9
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 About the National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP) ..................................................................................... Why is the plan needed ........................................................................................................................................ 9 How does NIIP relate to other plans .................................................................................................................. 10 How to read the plan ......................................................................................................................................... 11
Appendix 1: NIIP summary matrix .............................................................................................55 Appendix 2: Monitoring and evaluation framework...................................................................57 Annexes ....................................................................................................................................59
Annex A: Project details ..................................................................................................................................... 61 Annex B: Sector status and plans ....................................................................................................................... 89 Annex C: Project prioritisation ......................................................................................................................... 109 Annex D: Climate change adaptation and disaster risk management issues ................................................... 117 Annex E: Analysis of life-cycle costing issues.................................................................................................... 145 Annex F: Funding issues and strategy .............................................................................................................. 155 Annex G: Review of the outcome and impact of the NIIP2013 ........................................................................ 169
Abbreviations
AusAID CBD CCA CEO CSIRO DRM DSA DSM EBIT EBITDA EIA EU GEF GFDRR GHG GIZ GoT ICAO IMF IMO IUCN IUDSP JICA JNAP M&E MCA MDG MLECCNR MFNP MLSNR MIC MOI MPE OECD PE M&E MTBF MW NEMO NIIP NIIP2010 NIIP2013 NUDSP NZ NZAID PAIP PAT PCRAFI PE PPCR PUMA QSW SOE SPC-SOPAC SPREP TA TAL TBC TCC Australian Agency for International Development Central Business District Climate Change Adaptation Chief Executive Officer Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Disaster Risk Management Debt Sustainability Assessment Demand-Side Management Earnings before Interest and Tax Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation Environmental Impact Assessment European Union Global Environment Facility Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery Greenhouse gas Gesselschaft fr International Zusammenarbeit Government of Tonga International Civil Aviation Organisation International Monetary Fund International Maritime Organisation International Union for Conservation of Nature Integrated Urban Development Sector Project Japan International Cooperation Agency Joint National Action Plan on DRM and CCA for 2010 to 2015 Monitoring and Evaluation Multi-Criterion Assessment Millennium Development Goal Ministry of Lands, Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources Ministry of Finance and National Planning Ministry of Lands, Survey & Natural Resources Ministry of Information and Communications Ministry of Infrastructure Ministry of Public Enterprises Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Public Enterprises Monitoring and Evaluation Medium-Term Budget Framework Mega watt National Emergency Management Office National Infrastructure Investment Plan the first NIIP covering the period from 2010/11 this NIIP covering the period from 2013/14 Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project New Zealand New Zealand Agency for International Development Pacific Aviation Investment Program Ports Authority of Tonga Pacific Catastrophic Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative Public Enterprise Pilot Program for Climate Resilience Planning and Urban Management Agency Queen Salote Wharf (Nukualofa) State-Owned Enterprise Applied Geoscience and Technology Division of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community South Pacific Regional Environment Program Technical Assistance Tonga Airports Ltd Tonga Broadcasting Commission Tonga Communications Corporation
ii
TCCI TCL TFSCP TMO TMS TOP/T$ TPL TSCP TSDF TWB UNDP UPMS USAID USD WAL WB
Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tonga Cable Ltd Tonga-Fiji Submarine Cable Project Tonga Meteorological Office Tonga Meteorological Service Tongan paanga Tonga Power Ltd Transport Sector Consolidation Project Tonga Strategic Development Framework Tonga Water Board United Nations Development Program Urban Planning and Management System Project United States Agency for International Development US Dollars Waste Authority Ltd World Bank
Exchange rates
All figures quoted in the NIIP are in Tongan paanga (TOP). Exchange rates as at December 2012 are:
TOP 1 = USD 0.580 AUD 0.551 NZD 0.692 EUR 0.444 RMB 3.575 JPY 48.67
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Acknowledgments
This National Infrastructure Investment Plan was prepared with the assistance of many organisations and individuals. The input of the following organisations is gratefully acknowledged. Ministry of Finance and National Planning Ministry of Infrastructure Ministry of Lands, Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources Ministry of Public Enterprises Ministry of Information & Communications Tonga Energy Roadmap Implementation Unit Planning and Urban Management Authority National Spatial Planning Authority Joint National Action Plan on CCA/DRM Secretariat National Emergency Management Office Ports Authority Tonga Tong Broadcasting Commission Tonga Communications Corporation Tonga Cable Ltd Tonga Airports Ltd Tonga Power Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Ltd Civil Society Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tonga Development Bank Westpac Bank National Retirement Benefits Fund ADB/World Bank Focal Office Tonga Australian High Commission Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China Embassy of Japan JICA New Zealand High Commission CSIRO/Pacific Climate Change Science Program Transport Sector Consolidation Project team Pacific Aviation Investment Project team Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project team Pilot Projects in Climate Resilience project team
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Executive Summary
Background
This National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP) outlines the Government of Tongas priorities and plans for major initiatives in economic infrastructure (energy, telecommunications, water, solid waste management, and transport) over the next five to 10 years. It responds to a number of challenges facing Government: the need to bring together various sub-sector and agency plans into a single document; the need for a longer term view and sector-wide approach to infrastructure planning and management, and a systematic approach to identifying future priorities; Governments constrained budget position and the to set priorities and develop sustainable mechanisms for funding infrastructure delivery and maintenance based on sound economic and financial principles; the need for greater attention to strategic asset management and consideration of the life cycle (especially maintenance) costs generated by new investments, including issues such as operating efficiencies and demand-side management (DSM), and the institutional and regulatory environment for infrastructure; and increased attention to climate change adaptation and disaster risk management aspects of infrastructure development, management and operation.
This is the second NIIP. It updates and builds on the successes of the first NIIP that was prepared in 2010. It continues the focus on responsible investment and improved asset management, and includes a stronger spotlight on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management. The Plan is country owned and led, and was developed with the full participation of and in consultation with internal stakeholders, and private sector and community representatives. The process involved the following key steps: 1. 2. Analysing the key drivers for investments in economic infrastructure that will improve the everyday lives of the people of Tonga and reduce the costs of doing business. Assembling a comprehensive list of economic infrastructure projects in the pipeline based on information from Government, Public Enterprises, and development partners to identify those investment projects that are already underway or have committed funding. Developing and applying a robust prioritisation methodology that reflects national objectives as outlined in the Tonga Strategic Development Framework 2011-2014 (TSDF) to identify a set of infrastructure projects investments that are high priority for implementation in the next five years. Considering the whole-of-sector planning implications of high priority projects, and identifying linkages and complementary (non-infrastructure) measures required to obtain best long-term value from investments. Assessing the financial sustainability and level of cost recovery of existing infrastructure, and the proposed investments and linkages with public sector financial management framework. Assessing the current infrastructure funding position of Government and Public Enterprises, and developing a funding strategy that can form the basis for discussion between Government, national stakeholders, and development partners.
3.
4. 5. 6.
The findings are brought together in this National Infrastructure Investment Plan.
Key Findings
Government recognises that while infrastructure investment projects are important, they are only part of the story. They go hand in hand with the improved management of existing and new infrastructure, and initiatives to improve the overall institutional, regulatory, and operational environment for infrastructure development. As a result, this NIIP is much more than a list of project proposals. The NIIP is an integrated program for management of existing assets, new investments, supporting complementary measures, and linked projects . Complementary measures include the development of sector road maps, policy changes, institutional/regulatory/financial reforms, training and capacity building, and technical assistance in support of the Government policy to capitalise on existing infrastructure and obtain best value from new investments.
Over the three years since the first NIIP was prepared in 2010, there has been a peak in infrastructure investment, with an estimated T$300 million invested in economic infrastructure projects (note that all costs are in Tongan paanga, T$). This includes around: T$100 million in road rehabilitation and upgrade projects; T$60 million in electricity generation and distribution upgrades; T$30 million in telecommunications upgrades; and T$50 million in the Nukualofa central business district infrastructure redevelopment and Vuna Wharf cruise ship terminal.
In addition, there are a range of investment projects already underway or committed. The first priority of this NIIP is to successfully complete projects that are already underway and committed, and to consolidate infrastructure that we already have through better infrastructure management, use, and maintenance. However, there are still a range of infrastructure challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed. The complete list of future investment projects identified by this NIIP includes 74 projects spread across the economic infrastructure sectors, totalling around T$560 million of investment over the next five years; and an additional T$130 million in years the next five to 10 years. This includes projects that are currently underway, projects that are not underway but have committed funding, and proposed projects that currently have no confirmed funding but are proposed for possible implementation within the next five to ten years. Almost T$180 million of investment is already underway or committed for the next 10 years. This includes more than T$50 million of investment self-funded by Public Enterprises. It will not be possible to fund all of the projects that have been proposed. Therefore priorities have been set. Projects that are not already underway or have committed funding were progressively screened to identify those that meet identified demands, are planned to proceed in the next five years, align well with national priorities, and deliver strong benefits to the Tongan people. A formal Multi-Criterion Assessment process was used to prioritise these projects into Highest, Medium, and Lower priority bands. The process and the number of projects at each stage of the process are shown in the following diagram (Figure A).
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Long List of Planned Projects Proposed Projects
43
Screened Projects
Step 1: Screening for strategic alignment and timing
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Step 2: Prioritisation via Multi-Criteria Assessment Step 3: Review of funding, implementation capacity, and project linkages
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13
44
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The outcome of the prioritisation process is 13 high priority proposed projects for the next five years, totalling some T$170 million. These projects have been rated as high priority because they are planned to commence within the next five years and are strongly aligned with the objectives of the TSDF; are sustainable in terms of having a foundation of adequate financial, technical, and institutional structures in place; are expected to deliver the highest levels of economic/social/environmental/resilience benefits to Tonga; and are consistent with available financial resources and implementation capacity. These 13 projects have no confirmed source of funding at this stage and represent Governments priority aspirations for additional infrastructure development over the next five years. In conjunction with ongoing and committed projects, they form the basis for development strategies for each of the infrastructure sectors over the next five to ten years. The 13 high priority projects are listed in the table below. If the highest priority projects are all implemented, together with ongoing and already committed projects, the total investment in economic infrastructure over the next five years would be some T$350 million. About 50 per cent of this investment is in projects already underway (T$100 million), or already committed (T$70 million).
Table A: Summary of highest priority proposed projects Sector Energy Ref E11 E16 T9 T10 W3 W4 S6 R10 Project Additional 1-2MW of Solar PV on Tongatapu Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai and Vavau
1
FY2014-18
Telecoms
Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands water supply improvements Expand Nuku'alofa system to growth areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program
Project Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Resurfacing Haapai Airport runway, apron, taxiway New Control Tower at Fuaamotu International Airport Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu Disaster Response & Evacuation Infrastructure Sub-total High Priority proposed projects + Projects Underway and Committed TOTAL
FY2014-18
Multi-sector
To obtain full value from any new capital investments, the investment must be supported with initiatives to improve the management of existing and new infrastructure, and measures to improve the overall institutional and regulatory environment. This integrated framework of priority investments and complementary measures is the essence of the NIIP. The framework is summarised in Table B, structured in terms of Governments four priority themes for the development of economic infrastructure over the next five years: Connecting Tonga, Infrastructure for Communities, Reliable and Affordable Energy, and Sustainability, Safety and Resilience.
This project is linked to a proposed extension of the Fibre-Optic cable from Tonga to Samoa.
Table B: Summary of priority projects and complementary initiatives by theme Theme Sector Telecoms Roads Ports Airports Priority Investment Projects T9: Undersea fibre-optic cable linking Haapai and Vavau with international networks (T$30m)2 T 10: Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery (T10 T$6.0m) R10 : Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program (T$10m) See Sustainability, Safety and Resilience theme. A11: Resurface the runway at Salote Pilolevu airport (Haapai) (T$9m) A12: New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Airport (T$7m) Complementary Initiatives Update the access/regulatory regime for telecoms sector Private sector and Government initiatives (e-Government) that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access Develop private sector capacity for road maintenance (TSCP) Post-harvest facilities for fishing and agricultural produce (handling, storage, processing) (initial support provided EU and Australian Aid) Update the policy environment for domestic aviation Post-harvest facilities (initial support under EU program) Prepare a roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including sanitation and drainage. The roadmap should - clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities for water and sanitation - prepare a situation report for the Sanitation sector, that identifies issues, problems and responses - prepare a drainage plan for Nukualofa - prepare an investment plan for the next 10 years - explore demand-side management (DSM) and other non-infrastructure options for making better use of existing and planned infrastructure Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a five to 10 year investment plan. Non-Infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap - Policy, legal, regulatory reform supporting the Energy Roadmap - Research and feasibility studies of alternative energy sources (wind, wave, coconut oil, etc) - Improved fuel supply chain logistics - Other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap (DSM, etc) Institutional reform to clarify/simplify responsibilities across all sectors Develop and implement a national policy and strategy for strategic asset management Implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery (TSCP) Update arrangements for managing and maintaining ports for inter-island shipping Strengthen EIA system and capacity, and environmental monitoring Upgrading and capacity development in maritime safety and pollution response Update/upgrade maritime safety and pollution facilities; hydrographical charts, etc Upgrading and capacity development in aviation safety Mainstream CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards and management Upgrade Meteorological services and capability Improved arrangements for coordination of major projects with multi-sector implications
Connecting Tonga
W3: Outer islands water supply system improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) (T$15.0m) W4: Expand Nukualofa system to new growth areas. T$11.4m)
Solid Waste
S6: Improved Solid Waste disposal arrangements for Haapai ( T$4m) Additional on-grid solar electricity generation - E11: 1-2 MW on Tongatapu (T$24m) - E16: Outer islands (Vavau Haapai, Eua) ( T$9m)
Energy
Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience project (preliminary estimate of T$20 million but specific investments can be split out) M2: Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu ( T$3.0m) M4: Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure (T$12.0m)
Resilience
Linked to the proposed extension of the international fibre-optic cable between Tonga and Samoa
Table C: Analysis of capacity for self-funding infrastructure costs Sector Energy Agency Tonga Power Tonga Communications Corp. (TCC) Tonga Broadcasting Commission (TBC) Water Waste Tonga Water Board (TWB) Waste Authority Ltd Tonga Airports Ltd (TAL) Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) Operations High High High High Medium High High Maintenance High High Medium High Low High High Small CAPEX High High Medium Medium Low High High Medium CAPEX High High Low Low Low High High Large CAPEX Medium Medium Low Low Low Low Low
Telecoms
Transport
Several Public Enterprises (Tonga Power Ltd (TPL), Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC), Ports Authority of Tonga (PAT), and Tonga Airports Ltd (TAL)) have effective maintenance and investment programs in place, and can fully fund routine maintenance and small-medium asset renewal from their own resources. However, these Public Enterprises would struggle to self-fund investments to replace or rehabilitate the largest item of infrastructure that the Public Enterprise owns (such as the airport runway) or is required in order to transform the sector (such as an undersea fibre-optic cable). The financial position of the Tonga Water Board (TWB) is improving, with strong growth in revenues and an improved capacity to meet operating and maintenance costs and small capital expenditures. The Tonga Broadcasting Commission (TBC) can fund operations, but is struggling to keep pace with maintenance requirements, resulting in a gradually deteriorating infrastructure condition. The Waste Authority cannot fully fund the cost of operations and maintenance from its own resources and requires a Government subsidy to remain financially viable. Public Enterprises (with the possible exception of TPL, the TCC, and PAT) have a limited capacity for additional borrowings based on an analysis of their debt carrying capacity. The Government has a very limited capacity to finance economic infrastructure activities either from its Budget or through borrowing: The economy is improving but Budget conditions are expected to remain tight. The economy is growing slowly (0.8 per cent in real terms in 2011/12) and after several years of deficits, Government has budgeted for a small surplus in 2012/13, and surpluses of the order of one per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) are projected in the next three financial years. The level of existing Government debt and impending principal and interest repayments also pose significant challenges. The countrys present value of debt to GDP and present value of debt to exports are expected to exceed their debt sustainability thresholds of 100 per cent and 30 per cent until at least 2018. In response to this challenge, Government has adopted an interim no new loans policy. Dividends from Public Enterprises are not a significant revenue source, nor are they likely to be so in the medium term.
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These conditions severely limit the capacity of Government to self-fund infrastructure initiatives.
Funding strategy
The table below combines the requirements for capital expenditure on infrastructure over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 with estimated expenditures on complementary initiatives and the costs of maintenance of infrastructure (including pre-existing assets). It also provides a summary of the total demand for infrastructure finance over this period.
Table D: Total demand for infrastructure finance (T$ million) 2013/14 Capital Investment NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority Other smaller items of capital expenditure Complementary initiatives NIIP2013 Maintenance Pre-existing assets 1 NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority Total Notes: 1 Including NIIP2010 assets operational in 2011/12 10.5 0.5 0.3 142 10.5 2.5 0.8 136 10.5 2.5 1.5 92 10.5 2.5 2.0 58 10.5 2.5 2.1 41 52.5 10.4 6.7 470 3 3 3 3 3 15 104 16 8 49 62 8 7 60 8 8 24 8 5 10 8 173 172 40 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 Total
Based on the analysis of financial capacity of the Government, Public Enterprises, and past and planned external assistance programs, the Government plans to fund the above program as follows: Public Enterprises are expected to lift spending on infrastructure through revenues from user fees, contribute approximately T$35 million to maintenance, and some T$80 million to financing capital expenditure in infrastructure over the five year period. This includes contributions to NIIP2013 high priority projects and to major investment projects already underway or committed, and to planned smaller investments that are part of the Public Enterprises own investment program. In particular, the proposed new control tower at Fuaamotu and the expansion of the Nukualofa water system are two NIIP priority projects that could involve partial self -financing by the TAL and TWB respectively. Government is planning to contribute roughly T$5 million to infrastructure investment and T$35 million to maintenance, consisting of increased spending on maintenance for outer islands ports and the establishment of a Road Fund that will be phased in over several years and when fully operational will provide more than T$6 million each year for routine and periodic maintenance. Development Partners are expected to continue providing support for economic infrastructure and associated technical assistance and capacity building with an amount of approximately T$300 million. During past years, major development partners have committed some T$380 million in assistance for ongoing and planned infrastructure projects. With the Governments no new loans policy in place, it is expected that grant finance will increase to make up for lower concessional loan finance. A greater contribution is also expected from regional and global funds for Climate Change Adaptation (CCA)/Disaster Risk Management (DRM) activities. Government will take a lead role in facilitating CCA/DRM investments, a key emerging priority in the NIIP process. The private sector is not expected to contribute significantly to capital investment in infrastructure in the shortmedium term, but will play a critical and increasing role as a service provider in terms of design, construction, operations, and specialist technical services in the maintenance and construction of infrastructure. In the event that the extension of the undersea cable from Tonga to Samoa materialises, it is expected that part of the costs of linking up Haapai and Vavau (project T9) will be covered from revenues from the use of that cable.
Table E: Indicative infrastructure budget for 2013/14 - 2017/18 (T$ million) Funding Source Demand for Funding Capital Investment Complementary Activities Maintenance Total $385 $15 $70 $470 Government $5 $35 $40 Public Enterprises $80 $35 $115 Development Partners $300 $15 $315
In the short-medium term, making better use of existing infrastructure is also critical. Government considers that despite current financial constraints, substantial progress can be made towards optimising the use of existing and new infrastructure assets through improved asset management and operating efficiencies. In particular, advancements can be made with relatively modest budgets and development partner support for complementary initiatives (mostly technical assistance) aimed at building the foundation of sustainability, safety, and resilience that underpins the NIIP. This will include: working with Ministries and Public Enterprises to strengthen their capacity in planning, financial evaluation, business case development, implementation, and management of proposed infrastructure investments. All proposed investments should be supported by life-cycle costing and an asset management plan; retaining the clear commercial focus of Public Enterprises and accelerating progress on improving their financial performance as a way of strengthening capacity to meet maintenance and investment needs; promoting the principles of strategic asset management as a framework for improved infrastructure management and facilitating a maintenance culture at the Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) level; placing a greater emphasis on making better use of existing infrastructure through measures such as demand-side management (DSM), improved efficiency of service delivery, and alternative service delivery options; ensuring that environmental impact assessments (EIA) and environmental management planning is undertaken for major infrastructure projects, and strengthening and harmonising environmental monitoring and enforcement of legislative requirements; strengthening the capability of the MOI for oversight of safety standards, especially in the maritime and aviation sectors. Safety, especially in the transport sector, is one of Governments highest priorities; and mainstreaming climate change adaptation and disaster risk management into all aspects of infrastructure planning, management and operation, especially through the JNAP process ( Joint National Action Plan on DRM and CCA), and Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom Of Tonga .
In addition to specific complementary initiatives, Government intends to strengthen the policy and operational environment for funding and managing infrastructure by: using the NIIP process to provide clear direction about Governments infrastructure development priorities, and making sure that the NIIP is widely available within Government and to the broader community; continuing initiatives under the Government Structural Reform process to clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities and streamline Government procedures in the infrastructure sector; strengthening the role of the Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) in creating an improved environment for infrastructure development, financing, and delivery, because infrastructure relies on having effective public policies, institutions and legislation; strengthening forward planning requirements by requiring that all economic infrastructure sectors have a 10year infrastructure strategy and a three-year investment plan; and engaging further with the private sector, and continuing the reform and private sector development initiatives already launched by Government.
Term Budget Framework (MTBF) process that is being introduced by the Government from 2013 and with updates to the TSDF. Every four to five years, a full update of the NIIP will be prepared. A partial update will be released after two to three years with developments regarding the list of high priority projects and complementary initiatives; highlights of emerging challenges; and notes of any major changes to overall Government policies and priorities for the infrastructure sector. The Ministry of Finance and National Planning (MFNP) in collaboration with the MOI will monitor progress on implementation of the NIIP and prepare brief annual progress reports. The Government intends to make these annual progress reports available to national stakeholders and development partners, and aims to present them at annual infrastructure coordination meetings.
1 Context
1.1 About the National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP)
The National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP) outlines the Government of Tongas priorities and plans for major infrastructure initiatives over the next five to 10 years. This is the second NIIP (NIIP2). It updates and builds on the successes of the first NIIP that was prepared in 2010 (referred to as NIIP 2010, or NIIP1). Of the 12 priority investment projects proposed in the first NIIP, most are now underway and many of the supporting reforms and capacity building initiatives are also moving forward. The success of NIIP1 in terms of formal adoption by Government; facilitating dialog with Development Partners; and facilitating funding for priority projects and initiatives suggests that NIIP1 got it about right in terms of capturing the prevailing key themes and priorities for the infrastructure sector. But NIIP 2010 has been less successful in terms of achieving broad and lasting awareness and impact at a working-level in the Government of Tonga (GoT) and the broader community. A more detailed review of the outcomes and impact of NIIP 2010 are provided in Annex G and the lessons learned have been applied in preparing NIIP2. This Plan covers major infrastructure initiatives with national, regional, or local significance. It looks at the next five years to 2018 in detail and the five years from 2018 to 2023 in terms of broad directions for infrastructure development. It is the result of extensive consultation with infrastructure managers, users, and funding partners. This Plan focuses on economic infrastructure facilities that support everyday life and business activity, such as energy supply systems, telecommunications, water and waste management, and transportation. In particular, the NIIP includes priorities and plans for major initiatives in the following sectors: Energy (electricity, fuel) Telecommunications (telephone, internet, broadcasting) Water and waste related services (water supply, waste water, drainage, solid waste) Transport (airports, roads, sea ports)
Other categories of built infrastructure supporting social services and governance, such as education, healthcare, and correctional services, are not included in this Plan and generally have their own sector plans. Government is considering extending the scope of the NIIP to provide broader coverage of social and administrative infrastructure as a second stage of the NIIP process.
Finally, by providing greater certainty about the nature and timing of infrastructure projects, the NIIP improves the investment environment for the private sector. It also provides development partners with clear information about Government priorities and plans for infrastructure development, and the areas where assistance is most needed.
1.3
The NIIP is an important part of the national planning and budgeting process. This process and the role of the NIIP in the overall infrastructure planning process is summarised in Figure 1.1.
Sector Plans
Ministries
Informs
ANNUAL BUDGET
Informs
The overall direction and priorities of national infrastructure planning and the NIIP are shaped by the Tonga Strategic Development Framework 2011-2014 (TSDF). The TSDF is the Kingdom's principal document for setting economic and social development objectives. It sets the following development vision for the Kingdom:
To develop and promote a just, equitable and progressive society in which the people of Tonga enjoy good health, peace, harmony and prosperity, in meeting their aspirations in life.
More specifically, the TSDF highlights dynamic public and private sector partnership as the engine of growth ( TSDF Outcome Objective 2), and Governments emphasis on strong inclusive communities, equitable development, and its belief that all parts of the country should enjoy similar economic and social opportunities, enabling the outer islands and rural development programmes to contribute to national prosperity (TSDF Objective 1). Infrastructure and the NIIP play a major part in meeting these TSDF goals. In particular, TSDF Outcome Objective 3 specifies the need for:
Appropriate, well planned and maintained infrastructure that improves the everyday lives of the people and lowers the cost of business, by the adequate funding and implementation of the National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP).
This objective, and in particular the TSDF emphasis on quality of life; inclusive development; access to infrastructure services; affordability, safety and reliability; private sector development; maintenance and asset management; environmental sustainability; and resilience to climate change and natural disasters, provide an integrating framework for the NIIP and identifying infrastructure priorities. As well as being influenced by the TSDF, the NIIP is also shaped by sector development strategies/plans, including the Joint National Action Plan on Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation (JNAP). Together, the TSDF, NIIP, and sector plans then influence Ministries and Public Enterprises in their corporate and investment planning. The
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Corporate Plans and the Annual Management Plans of Ministries set out a three-year strategic plan for the Ministry and a one-year management plan for allocation of resources. This aligns closely with the annual budgeting process of Government, and the Medium-Term Budget Framework (MTBF) which incorporates forward projections of aggregate expenditure and revenue. Full implementation of the MTBF is expected for the 2013/14 Budget. A similar process occurs in Public Enterprises where Statements of Corporate Intent play an equivalent role in forward planning and budgeting. The NIIP also provides important information on planned future investments that can be used by the private sector in its planning and decision-making. Finally, each update of the NIIP is informed by national and corporate investment plans and budgets plus the priorities of the private sector. At this stage the planning loop is completed. More details of the planning process in the infrastructure sector are provided in Annex B.
The Plan also includes several Technical Annexes that provide further detail on the following topics: A summary of the long list of projects and project sheets for the priority infrastructure projects (Annex A). A status report of each sector, current challenges, and investment plans (Annex B). The process and methodology of project prioritisation (Annex C). An overview of CCA/DRM issues (Annex D). The financial performance of the economic infrastructure sector, strategic asset management, life cycle costing, and maintenance (Annex E). An assessment of the current financial environment for economic infrastructure and a proposed funding strategy (Annex F). A review of the outcomes and impact of the NIIP 2010 (Annex G).
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Table 2.1: Key demographic, economic and sector indicators Indicator Demographic Population (2011) - Tongatapu - Outer Islands Average growth rate (5 years to 2011) - Tongatapu - Outer Islands No. of Households (2011) Average Household Size Economic GDP (2010-11) GDP per capita (2010-11) Growth in GDP (real terms) Government Budget Surplus/Deficit (%GDP) Growth in Consumer Prices Exchange Rate: Sector Contributions Key Components of GDP 2010-11 103,040 persons 75,160 persons 27,880 persons 0.2% 0.8% -1.4% 18,160 5.7 persons T$782 million (USD 453 million) T$7,600 (USD 4,400) 0.8% (2011/12r); 2.9% (10/11r); 3.3% (09/10); 3.2% (08/09) 0.1% (2012/13e); -3.0% (11/12e); -7.3% (10/11p); -5.3% (09/10) 6.1% (2010/11); 1.7% (2009/10); 5.5% (2008/09) 0.545 (USD/T$: 2010/11 average) Agriculture, forests and fisheries Commerce, restaurants and hotels Government services Construction Live animals, animal products Vegetable products 17% 13% 12% 11% 50% 41%
Sources: Tonga Census 2011; Tonga National Accounts Statistics (Tonga Statistics Department, June 2012 and February 2013); Government of Tonga Budget Statement for year ending 30th June 2013
2.1
Infrastructure plays a critical role in achieving the goals of the TSDF because there is a clear and positive linkage between infrastructure, social development, and economic growth. International research provides evidence of this strong, positive association. There is still much to be debated about the size of infrastructure impacts on economic output; short-term versus long-term benefits; which infrastructure categories give the best results; and the influence of certain policies and practices. However, there is consensus that: There is a positive correlation between infrastructure and economic outcomes. Investment in core economic infrastructure (such as electricity, telecoms, transport, sewerage, and water systems) produces the largest gains in productivity. Investments in roads and telecommunications typically deliver the greatest social returns. Maintenance is less visible but is likely to have a greater positive influence on economic output than new projects. When access to core infrastructure has been addressed, the best economic results come from improving efficiency and then from reducing service prices.
This means that welltargeted investment in infrastructure can have significant benefits for economic growth and quality of life. But the reverse is also true. Inadequate infrastructure is a bottleneck to economic activity and also reduces the day-to-day wellbeing of people; their quality of life; and the ability to withstand and respond to disasters. Sustainability is also compromised because resources are used wastefully.
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It is also important to assess whether or not existing infrastructure is being used and managed efficiently. When it is not, service coverage, pricing, and quality are all compromised, and the benefits of appropriate infrastructure are not realised. As a result, this NIIP focuses not just on physical infrastructure but also on the way it is used and managed.
3 4
For a general overview of the challenges facing Tonga and other Pacific nations, see Asian Development Bank, Swimming Against the Tide (2004). From the Pacific Catastrophic Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (2011).
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Ensuring that Tonga maintains its compliance with international safety and security regulations in the international aviation and maritime sectors, so that connectivity to international and national markets is not constrained such as to become a brake on economic development and an impediment to social connectivity. This is particularly critical to development of export-based industries.
These key drivers of demand for infrastructure development and their relative significance for each of the infrastructure sub-sectors are discussed in more detail in Chapter 3 and in Annex B. There is also a wider issue that remains one of Tongas greatest infrastructure challenges. The role of government in relation to the infrastructure sector is changing. Government has largely moved away from taking responsibility for infrastructure investment and service delivery, to being a facilitator of infrastructure service outcomes. Under current arrangements, all economic infrastructure except roads and outer islands ports, are now under the management and operation of Public Enterprises. This change is consistent with international good practice, but it requires a continuing focus by Government on the policy, legislation, institutional, and regulatory environment that underpins the infrastructure management system. As a result, this Plan takes an integrated approach that considers the need for investment in infrastructure and also the need for continual improvement in infrastructure management and the infrastructure policy environment.
As noted above, this means leveraging infrastructure as a catalyst and enabling factor for economic growth and inclusive development. However, it is important for the NIIP to provide more specific guidance about the reasons for investing in infrastructure and the objectives that Government seeks to achieve. Governments strategic framework for the infrastructure sector can be distilled into three core themes and one enabling theme: Connecting Tonga this theme is about connecting people and business to each other within Tonga and internationally through transport and communications links. This connectivity is vital for bringing people, activities, and economic development together, especially in terms of access to international markets and ensuring that all parts of the country share similar economic and social opportunities. Infrastructure for Communities this theme is about developing the basic utilities and associated infrastructure services that support vibrant communities and economic development, including electricity, water, sanitation, solid waste management, and drainage. Inadequate basic utilities can be a bottleneck to economic growth, and also reduce the day-to-day well-being of people and their quality of life. Reliable and Affordable Energy as well as basic access to electricity, energy supplies need to be reliable and affordable. This theme is about transforming the Tonga energy sector to make it more sustainable in terms of affordability; greater use of renewable energy sources; and reduced reliance on imported fuels. In the longer term, this will also underpin sustainable economic growth. Sustainability, Safety and Resilience these qualities are not optional extras, but are an essential part of any infrastructure development. Sustainability, safety, and resilience to climate change and natural disasters provide the foundation that underpins all infrastructure in Tonga. In this context, sustainability means that the infrastructure is affordable on a full life-cycle cost basis (financial sustainability); that the infrastructure assets are properly maintained and managed (operational sustainability); that impacts on the local and global environment are minimised and preferably reduced (environmental sustainability); and that adequate institutional frameworks and capabilities are in place to support the development (institutional sustainability).
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These themes and their relationship to each other and the TSDF are shown in the following diagram (Figure 2.1). As mentioned above, the importance of these themes and the overall strategic framework is that they provide a touchstone for maintaining a clear focus on the rationale and objectives for infrastructure development in Tonga. In a nutshell, the reason for investing in developing the infrastructure sector is to connect people and business to social and economic opportunities; to provide the basic infrastructure services that support vibrant communities and the economy; and to provide access to reliable and affordable energy, in a way that is sustainable, safe and resilient.
TSDF
Infrastructure that improves the everyday lives of the people and lowers the cost of business
Connecting Tonga
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In addition, there are a large number of smaller economic infrastructure projects already underway or committed (see Annex A).
In this Plan, a project is defined as committed if funding has already been identified and confirmed for the investment and there is a high probability that it will proceed, and proposed if it is proposed for future implementation but funding has not been confirmed and timing is less certain. Planned investments include all those project that are underway, committed or proposed.
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Table 3.1: Major projects already underway or in preparation in each sector Project Energy (TERM Implementation) Communications (TFSCP) Water (NUDSP) Solid Waste (NUDSP) Roads (TSCP, IUDSP) Airports (TSCP, PAIP) Maritime (TSCP) FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 after FY18
These ongoing projects provide a foundation for improving economic infrastructure over the next five to 10 years, but will not address all of the current and emerging challenges. Therefore, additional investment and related initiatives will be required where it is needed, is affordable, and will deliver benefits to the economy and community. Priorities for additional projects over the next five to ten years were identified through a process of consultation and analysis. The first step was to carry out an analysis of the current status of infrastructure and services, and assess demand for new infrastructure. The second step involved consultation with infrastructure managers (Ministries, Public Enterprises) and users (community and private sector) to identify a long list of proposals for infrastructure projects and related initiatives that address current deficiencies and emerging infrastructure needs. These project ideas were then refined in discussions with infrastructure managers to ensure that the project objectives, concept, and likely costs were clearly identified. This process generated more than 40 proposals for new major projects that would improve the national infrastructure system at a total cost estimated to be around T$500 million. These project proposals, as well as projects already underway and committed, are listed in Annex A and described in Annex B. However, with available financial resources and implementation capacity it will not be possible to deliver all of these projects over the next five years. Therefore decisions needed to be made about investment priorities. The long list of proposed projects was progressively screened to identify projects that are strongly aligned with national goals; planned to proceed in the next five years; and which deliver strongest benefits to the Tongan people. The first test checked whether each project concept is aligned with TSDF goals and MDGs; and is consistent with the relevant sector and corporate plan. Projects that demonstrated a high level of strategic alignment were retained and moved forward to the next stage in the screening process. The next step was to set aside all projects that are not planned to commence in the next five years. The timing of projects beyond five years is less certain and in most cases, these longer-term proposals are still in the development phase. The remaining proposed projects were then assessed using a formal multi-criterion assessment (MCA) methodology 6 which ranked the projects according to their performance against criteria linked to key TSDF outcome objectives. The criteria included economic (access to markets; effect on the cost/quality/capacity of infrastructure services); social (access to social opportunities and interaction; effect on service coverage/ quality/reliability/safety); environmental (effect on soil/water/air/ecosystems); climate change and disaster management factors (climate change adaptation/mitigation, CCA/DRM resilience); and sustainability (financial, technical, institutional). The starting point for the selection and weighting of criteria for the multi-criteria assessment was a review of the criteria and weights used in NIIP2010. The review considered developments since the preparation of NIIP2010, most notably the release of the TSDF 2011-2014 and Governments new strategic vision and priorities as described above. The major changes introduced in the criteria used in this NIIP were the addition of a headline criterion dealing specifically with climate change adaptation and disaster risk management, and broadening the scope of the readiness headline criterion used in NIIP2010 into a project sustainability headline criterion, with financial, technical and institutional dimensions. The criteria and sub-criteria selected for the MCA are described in detail in Annex C. The review also considered the weighting attached to each criterion, with the aim of simplifying the weightings, better reflecting the balance of economic, social and environmental objectives of TSDF, and the need for project sustainability. In summary, the headline criteria and weightings used in the multi-criteria assessment were:
MCA provides a rapid appraisal for screening projects, but for all projects, detailed feasibility/economic/financial evaluati on will be required to confirm their valuefor money before a final commitment to investment.
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As noted above, it will not be possible to deliver all of the proposed projects over the next five years. The last step was to divide the projects into high/medium/lower priority bands based on the results of the MCA and considering potential availability of finance (see Chapter 5 and Annex F for more details); implementation capacity (both in relation to the institutions responsible for the projects and those implementing projects, in particular the construction sector); and potential linkages and synergies among projects. The overall process used to identify infrastructure priorities is shown in Figure 3.1, and the process and full results are described in detail in Annex C.
Figure 3.1: Preparation of the NIIP project list
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Long List of Projects Proposed Projects
43
32
Screened Projects Next 5 years
+ =
11
Longer-Term Projects
Step 2: Prioritisation via Multi-Criteria Assessment Step 3: Review of funding, implementation capacity, and project linkages
31
13
44
13
10
The outcome is 13 high priority proposed projects (Table 3.2) that are: planned to commence within the next five years and have strong alignment with the objectives of the TSDF; sustainable in terms of having adequate financial, technical, and institutional structures in place; expected to deliver the highest levels of economic/social/ environmental/resilience benefits to Tonga; consistent with available financial resources and implementation capacity.
The 13 priority projects have no confirmed source of funding and represent Governments priority aspirations for additional infrastructure development over the next five years. In conjunction with ongoing and committed projects, they form the basis for strategies for each of the infrastructure sectors over the next five to 10 years. More details on each of these projects are provided in the following discussion of priorities for each sector, and in Annex A in the form of a detailed Project Sheet for each of the 13 high priority projects. Note that each specific investment project has a reference code (such as E11) that is used to track the projects and the same code number is used throughout the NIIP and Annexes.
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Table 3.2: Highest priority proposed projects Sector Energy Telecoms Water Solid Waste Roads Ports Airports Multi-sector Ref E11 E16 T9 T10 W3 W4 S6 R10 P9 A11 A12 M2 M4 Project Additional 1-2MW of Solar PV on Tongatapu Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai and Vavau7 Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands water supply improvements Expand Nuku'alofa system to growth areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Resurfacing Haapai Airport runway, apron, taxiway New Control Tower at Fuaamotu International Airport Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu Disaster Response & Evacuation Infrastructure Sub-total High Priority proposed projects + Projects Underway + Committed Projects TOTAL Estimated Cost T$ x million 24 9 30 6 15 11 4 10 20 9 7 15 12 172 100 73 T$345 FY2014-18
The total package of investment priorities (underway, committed, proposed) of T$345 million is smaller than the NIIP2010 priority program, which amounted to some T$480 million. This reflects the unusually high level of infrastructure investment in the last five years. Government also intends to achieve a balance of new investment at a sustainable level, consolidate of existing infrastructure, and ensure that all parts of the country as much as possible share similar economic and social opportunities. For these reasons, the proportion of new investments in outer islands is higher compared to the previous NIIP, and the overall balance of investments of ongoing and new projects is about 70 percent in Tongatapu versus 30 per cent in the Outer Islands, which is close to the number of people living in the respective areas. The investment projects listed in Table 3.2 are Governments highest priorities based on currently available information. However, it is recognised that needs change and new opportunities arise. When promising projects and activities are identified between each update of the NIIP, these projects will be analysed by the Government using the same prioritisation methodology provided in Annex C. In this way, the chances of developing projects that are not consistent with good planning principles used in this NIIP will be reduced significantly.
3.2
The priority investment projects cannot be considered in isolation because hard infrastructure cannot be separated from its supporting framework of soft infrastructure (institutional/policy/regulatory/legal/ financial/planning/training and capacity building). In addition, some projects rely on other initiatives happening first or at the same time so that they can deliver their full value. As a result, the NIIP priorities for development of the economic infrastructure sector extend beyond investment projects. The NIIP is an integrated program of investment projects and supporting complementary initiatives. These complementary initiatives are mostly non-infrastructure measures that support the investments and will lead to achieving better long-term and sustainable value from the investments. Taking into account all these factors, the overall NIIP priority program for each sector has four components: major projects and initiatives already underway or committed; proposed investment projects that are assessed to be a high priority; complementary initiatives that support these projects and their life cycle management; and linked projects that work in conjunction with or rely on another initiative (priority project, complementary initiative) to enable the full benefits to be realised.
Some of the priority measures relate to cross-sectoral issues, while others are specific to a particular sector. For convenience, the integrated strategy for development of the economic infrastructure sector as a whole is presented in
7
This project is linked to a proposed extension of the fibre-optic cable from Tonga to Samoa.
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the following sections in two ways: firstly, on a sector-by-sector basis (energy, telecommunications, water, solid waste, transport, multi-sector), and then in terms of the cross-sectoral themes linked to the NIIP strategic framework described above.
3.3
For each sector, the priorities are presented in a consistent way, starting with a brief overview of the current situation and initiatives already underway; then a discussion of the key challenges driving the need for investment in the sector; and concluding with a description of the integrated strategy of priorities for the sector. These priorities are also tabulated in Appendix A which provides a Summary Strategy Matrix for the NIIP, and a more detailed background profile of each sub-sector (infrastructure, services, demand, institutional structure) is provided in Annex B.
ENERGY
Current status and ongoing programs Tonga has one of the highest levels of access to electricity in the region with around 85 per cent of the population ongrid and high levels of supply reliability. But at the same time, Tonga has historically had one of the highest costs of 8 electricity in the region. In part, this was a result of Tongas almost 100 per cent reliance on diesel-powered generation for on-grid services. System losses were also high at around 17-18 per cent in 2011 but are coming down and are expected to be reduced to around 14 per cent by 2013, and reduce further to around 10 per cent through network improvements. This is more consistent with international benchmarks. The energy sector is in a phase of rebuilding and transformation. Tonga Power is investing heavily from its own resources to rehabilitate the electricity generation and supply system to increase efficiency and safety; and is working with development partners (the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), European Union (EU), New Zealand Aid, and the WB) to upgrade village power supply systems and off-grid supply (Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)). It will be important to continue these initiatives as part of overall measures to increase efficiency and reduce the cost of electricity. At the same time, initiatives are underway to transform electricity production with a move towards greater stability and self-sufficiency. In 2009, Government responded to the twin challenges of reducing the Tongan contribution to global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and improving national energy security by endorsing a policy of 50 per cent of energy from renewable resources. This is a challenging target providing a clear indication that environmental sustainability and reducing the vulnerability of the country to future oil price shocks are key Government objectives. Renewable energy is a major element of the strategy to enhance energy security for the Kingdom. Governments response to this target is set out in the Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM) 2010-2020. A number of projects are already underway that contribute to meeting the renewable energy target and TERM objectives. These include installation of a 1.3 MW solar generation facility on Tongatapu (with assistance from the New Zealand (NZ) Government); an on-grid solar generation facility on Vavau (with assistance from Abu Dhabi); investment in off-grid solar power systems for households in outer-islands (with support from the Japanese Government); research into other sources of renewable energy (such as wind power, tidal power, producing bio-fuel from coconuts, etc); and investigation of options for stabilising and potentially reducing the cost of petroleum fuels by measures such as hedging and/or improving the fuel supply chain. Challenges Reducing the cost of doing business, improving the quality of life of people, and Governments commitment to addressing climate change are driving the need for improved energy infrastructure. Under current conditions, Tonga 10 has sufficient generation capacity to meet current demand and growth in demand is not a major factor driving the need for investment in the short-medium term. As noted above, Tonga has historically had some of the highest costs of electricity in the region as a result of a high level of reliance on imported petroleum and past under-investment in the distribution network. This has a negative impact on business costs and on household budgets. In addition, the high level of reliance on imported petroleum creates energy security and price stability issues. The major challenge in the Energy sector is to diversify sources of energy and improve energy efficiency by rehabilitating and upgrading the
9
8 9 10
Pacific Power Association, Performance Benchmarking for Pacific Power Utilities- Benchmarking Report 2011(2012). World Bank, Tonga Energy Road Map 2010-2020 (2010). As measured by capacity factor, see Pacific Power Association, Performance Benchmarking for Pacific Power Utilities- Benchmarking Report 2011.
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distribution network to provide reliable, sustainable, safe, and affordable energy to households and businesses in Tonga. Priority initiatives The energy sector in Tonga is responding to this challenge. TPL is heavily investing from its own sources in improvements in the distribution network and in replacing old and inefficient generation capacity. In addition, the TERM outlines a range of investments and supporting initiatives. The major priorities for additional investment in the Energy sector are: an additional 1-2MW of solar generation capacity on Tongatapu (E11 - T$24 million); and solar generation capacity on outer-islands (E16 - T$9 million).
These priority investments continue and will accelerate the program of installing on-grid solar electricity generation and extend renewable energy generation to outer islands. This is supported by complementary measures and linked investments. The complementary initiatives involve implementing TERM initiatives, in particular: technical assistance for institutional reform and consolidation in the energy sector, including policy, legal, institutional and regulatory adjustments; data gathering, resource assessments, and technical studies into options for diversifying energy sources, especially renewable energy options such as biomass, wind, wave, hydropower, etc. Depending on the outcome of research into these alternative renewable sources, the next step would be pilot plants to validate the concept. This is expected to require investment of an estimated T$3-5 million for initial trials; end-use efficiency and DSM initiatives (such as energy awareness, energy efficient lighting, and appliances, etc) aimed at reducing inefficient use and waste of electricity; and initiatives to stabilise and potentially reduce the cost of fuel by measures such as hedging and/or improving the fuel supply chain. If the studies find that expanding the fuel storage capacity at Nukualofa is required, this would require investments estimated at around T$30 million.
Linked investments are also required to accelerate the process of rehabilitating and improving the electricity distribution network (power lines, power poles, customer connections) to increase efficiency and safety, and reduce maintenance and operating costs. The relatively large number of existing connections and degraded state of the network make Nukualofa a priority for grid rehabilitation. The Energy sector has been identified as one of the infrastructure sectors at greatest risk from the impacts of climate change and natural disasters (see risk assessment in Annex D). In the longer term, consideration will have to be given to initiatives to reduce this vulnerability, for instance by moving bulk fuel storage facilities on Tongatapu to a new location outside of the tsunami and storm surge risk zone, and by relocating power lines to critical infrastructure (such as hospitals) underground to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters. The priority program for the Energy sector is summarised in Figure 3.2.
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Ongoing Program
Continued investment to rehabilitate the electricity system; increase use of renewable energy sources; and extend access to power in off-grid areas
ENERGY SECTOR
Complementary Initiatives
Institutional reform and consolidation supporting the Energy Roadmap, including policy, legal, institutional and regulatory adjustments Research and feasibility studies of alternative energy sources (biomass, wind, wave, coconut oil, etc) Research into improved fuel supply chain logistics Other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap (DSM, etc)
Linked Investments
Accelerate the program to rehabilitate the electricity distribution system in Nukualofa to increase efficiency and safety (E19)
Linked Investments
Renewable energy pilot projects (E12 T$3.0) Upgrade Bulk Fuel Facilities (Tank Farm, Bunkering) to support improved supply chain logistics (E9 T$30m)
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Current status and ongoing programs Tonga is well positioned in terms of access to basic telecommunications services. Mobile phone and internet services are already available throughout the country, including smaller and more remote communities. Around 70 per cent of households have a fixed line connection and there are more than 50,000 mobile phone customers (equivalent to an average of three mobile phones per household). The completion of an undersea fibre-optic link to Fiji, scheduled for 2013, will deliver a step-change in speed, capacity, and quality that will redefine telecommunications in Tonga; offset some of the geographical disadvantage experienced by the country; and create new economic and social opportunities. In addition, TCC is investing from its own resources in local reticulation of broadband internet, and local telecoms infrastructure and services (telephone, radio, internet) are being progressively improved by TCC and Digicel to accommodate emerging applications (such as mobile internet, multi-media, and interactive applications), and to improve coverage in less-populated islands. As a result of these developments, internet use is expected to grow rapidly in the short-medium term, especially through the upgraded mobile phone network. Competition and private sector involvement in the telecommunications sector has been a strong force driving these developments. Challenges Business and social connectivity and reducing the cost of doing business are key factors driving the need for improved telecommunications infrastructure. As noted above, high standard telecommunications can offset some of the geographical disadvantage experienced by Tonga and increase the international competitiveness of Tongan business, for instance in the tourism industry.
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In addition, telecommunications also serves a vital role during natural disasters and other emergency situations. In particular, AM radio continues to play an important role in sending messages to outer island communities including information about scheduled arrivals of shipping and airline services. It also has a critical role in broadcasting regular weather reports and cyclone and tsunami warnings, and during disaster recovery. Some of the infrastructure supporting this role is currently in locations that are at high risk from natural disasters and flooding (see risk assessment in Annex D). A major challenge facing the telecommunications sector is the continuation of reliable AM radio coverage throughout the country under all conditions; as well as strengthening the CCA/DRM resilience of other telecommunications media, such as the mobile phone system. Priority initiatives In addition to initiatives already underway and committed, Governments priorities for investment in the Telecoms sector are: extension of the undersea optic fibre cable to Haapai and Vavau (T$30 million); and strengthening the resilience of AM radio in its communications role for early warning and disaster recovery (T$6.0 million).
Government supports proposals to extend the international fibre-optic cable link to Haapai and Vavau as soon as possible so that these northern island groups can share the economic development and social benefits of improved telecommunications within Tonga and internationally (estimated cost T$30 million). This project is linked to a proposed extension of the international undersea cable from Tonga to Samoa. If this extension materialises, Government is eager to use that opportunity to link the two island groups. If the link to Samoa will not be implemented, additional feasibility analysis will be necessary to identify the feasibility of this project. Government recognises that this project needs to be part of a broader and commercially viable telecommunications network strategy that builds on the experience that will be gained from maximising the potential of the undersea cable connection to Tongatapu. In addition, there are two complementary initiatives that support the fibre-optic cable links and high-speed internet distribution. These are firstly, the establishment of an appropriate regulatory and access regime for wholesaling of high-speed internet access; and secondly, follow-up private sector and Government initiatives that build on opportunities emerging from improved internet access, such as e-commerce and egovernment services. These follow-up activities are critical to maximising the national economic benefits from investment in the cable. The second investment priority in this sector is upgrading the resilience of the AM radio system in its role as an early warning system for cyclones and in providing vital information during disaster recovery. This involves the construction of a new transmitter tower on Vavau (estimated cost T$3.0 million) and climate proofing of transmission facilities and studios in Tongatapu and Vavau (estimated cost T$3.0 million). A new transmission tower on Vavau would address reception problems on northern islands, especially during cyclones and emergency situations. It will also provide a backup for the AM transmission tower on Tongatapu and provide resilience to AM system damage during natural disasters. The location of existing TBC studios and transmission equipment, especially on Tongatapu, is vulnerable to flooding from heavy rain and tsunami. Climate and disaster proofing of TBC facilities on Tongatapu and Vavau is important for continuity of operation during natural disasters and in its everyday role in providing community information services. A summary of the priority program for the Telecommunications sector is provided in Figure 3.3.
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Ongoing Program
Continued investment by the private sector and Public Enterprise in telecoms technology and services Undersea fibre-optic cable linking Tongatapu with international networks Local high speed cable reticulation within Tonga
TELECOMS SECTOR
Priority Investments
Undersea fibre-optic cable linking Haapai and Vavau with international networks (T9 T$30m) Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery (T10 T$6.0m)
Complementary Initiatives
Update the access/regulatory regime for telecoms sector Private sector and Government initiatives (e-Government) that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access
Linked Investments
Proposed extension of the international fibre-optic cable to link Tonga with Samoa Hardware supporting the EGovernment initiative
11
12
Non-revenue water is an important measure of efficiency. It refers to the difference between system input volume and the billed or authorised consumption, and includes un-billed consumption from faulty meters, illegal connections or under-billing as well as physical losses from leakages and overflows. Pacific Water and Wastes Association, Benchmarking Report 2011 (2011); Asian Development Bank, Asian Water Supplies: Reaching the Urban Poor (2003).
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Challenges The need for infrastructure investment in the Water sector is driven by population trends; household consumption patterns; health and quality standards; and efficient management of valuable water supply resources. As noted above, the total population of Tonga is growing slowly (average of 0.2 per cent per year over the last five years), but the pattern is not uniform. In particular, the population of Nukualofa, especially in urban fringe areas, is growing much more quickly (up to an average 2.5 per cent growth per year). This creates a significant challenge for the TWB to keep pace with demand for system coverage and water quality in the Nukualofa system , whilst simultaneously monitoring and safeguarding water sources. Population growth on outer islands has not generated the same pressure, but similar challenges exist to improve water management, safeguard water quality, and improve the resilience of water supply systems to climate change. Another challenge is reducing loss and waste of valuable water. The TWB is already working to reduce water losses and upgrade efficiency throughout its water supply and distribution system. There is also an opportunity for the TWB and village water supply managers to be proactive in promoting responsible use of water through DSM initiatives similar to the energy sector. This may involve measures such as reducing waste and leakage of water in houses; encouraging or mandating the use of water-saving fittings; and awareness campaigns that build an understanding of water as a scarce and valuable resource. In many countries, the water sector also includes sanitation and drainage as part of the overall water cycle. Although Tonga does not currently have a central sewerage system in any urban area, important issues relating to disposal of grey water and septage (sludge pumped from septic tanks) are emerging and are likely to require a coordinated response in the short-medium term. As a partial response, a grey water collection system has been installed in central Nukualofa as part of the CBD redevelopment project. Sanitation is a growing chal lenge and an area where Government is planning to place greater emphasis in the future. In particular, there is an urgent need to develop a better understanding of current and emerging sanitation problems and issues, and options available for responding to these issues. A similar situation exists with drainage. Addressing the challenges of improved drainage, especially in the Nukualofa area, requires a better understanding of problems and available responses, a coordinated approach, and greater clarity on institutional responsibilities. Priority initiatives The priority program for the Water sector addresses these key challenges. In particular, the priority new investments are to: rehabilitate and expand the water systems on Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua, and Niuafoou (wells, filtration, storage, distribution, etc) under an Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements Program (T$15 million); and expand the Nuku'alofa water supply system to peri-urban growth areas of Nukualofa (T$11.4 million).
The proposed outer islands water supply improvements will provide benefits to communities and businesses in terms of improved quality and reliability of water supply, and reduce the cost of water production. In particular, it will accelerate programs to replace pipes to reduce losses and lower costs; upgrade water treatment and storage facilities; replace diesel with solar pumps on well fields; extend the reticulation network to additional villages; and improve water supplies for around 24 schools and colleges. Where feasible, measures will also be put in place to improve the resilience of the water supplies to climate change and natural disasters. The projects will also include training and capacity building for the TWB outer island branches. In the longer term it will reduce the pressure on existing underground resources and delay the need for additional wells and other new investment. The second priority investment involves e xpanding the Nukualofa water supply. This will bring existing settlements on the edges of Nukualofa into the water supply system; deliver benefits to residents and businesses in terms of access to improved, reliable water supply; and also enable the TWB to obtain greater utilisation from existing systems. In addition, expanding services in a planned and systematic way can help to shape development in the rapidly growing peri-urban areas in conjunction with other urban planning initiatives, such as under the National Spatial Planning and Management Act 2010. Both investment priorities link with TSDF Outcome Objective 3 and Strategy 13, which prioritise [m]aintaining and expanding access to safe water and sanitation for all communities. These investments will address urgent gaps and deficiencies in the water sector, but in the longer term a strategic and coordinated approach is required that addresses the full water cycle. The Water sector currently does not have an upto-date medium-long term development strategy. The preparation of a long-term master plan has been proposed
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under the ADB-supported Urban Planning and Management System (UPMS) project and is supported by the TWB. Preparing a Water and Sanitation Roadmap is now a priority. The roadmap should examine the full water cycle, including waste water, sanitation, and drainage because of institutional gaps in these areas; include a long-term agenda for developments and investments in water supply and sanitation nationwide over the next 10-20 years; and a comprehensive drainage strategy for Nukualofa and investment plan for the next 10 years. In summary, the priority program for the Water sector is shown in Figure 3.4.
Ongoing Program
Continue programs to reduce water losses. Implement system upgrades under NUDSP
WATER SECTOR
Priority Investments
Outer islands water supply system improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) (W3 T$15.0m) Expand Nukualofa system to new growth areas. (W4 T$11.4m)
Complementary Initiatives
Prepare a roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including sanitation and drainage. Roadmap should clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities for water and sanitation prepare a situation report for the Sanitation sector, that identifies issues, problems and responses prepare a Drainage Plan for Nukualofa prepare a sector investment plan for the next 10 years explore DSM and other noninfrastructure initiatives
Linked Investments
Investments linked to the Water Sector Roadmap, which may include Additional drainage works in the Nukualofa area Investments in improved sanitation
SOLID WASTE
Current situation In 2007, a new solid waste collection system was implemented on Tongatapu and the Waste Authority Limited (WAL) was established to take control of solid waste collection and disposal. This includes responsibility for the disposal of sewage sludge at the Tapuhia landfill facility on Tongatapu. WAL provides waste collection services covering all of Tongatapu, but on other islands, formal arrangements for solid waste collection are not in place. Likewise, formal arrangements for sanitary disposal of solid waste are not in place on other islands, e xcept for Vavau. WAL is progressively improving its performance but continues to require financial support from Government; is unable to fund adequate maintenance; and has a growing maintenance backlog. In addition there are problems with the design of WALs existing equipment and facilities, and the illegal dumping of waste is an emerging issue. Several projects are underway with the aim of improving solid waste management on Tongatapu and Vavau. This includes activities under the NUDSP initiative to improve waste disposal operations at the Tapuhia landfill; improve
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solid waste collection services on Tongatapu; and strengthen WALs financial and asset management systems and capacity. On Vavau, the existing landfill facility is b eing upgraded with assistance from the Government of Japan to improve its environmental performance. But this is a temporary measure, because the existing facility is in a vulnerable seaside location. In the longer term, it will be preferable to relocate solid waste disposal on Vavau to a new site where a fully engineered sanitary landfill facility can be constructed. Challenges The need for infrastructure investment in the Solid Waste sector is driven by population trends; household consumption patterns; and health and quality standards. On Tongatapu, urban population growth at levels of up to 2.5 per cent per year in some areas is increasing the demand for collection and disposal services. This is straining the capacity of WAL to meet the demand, especially while WAL is in a rebuilding phase. On outer islands, the challenge is to provide a long-term solution for sanitary and environmentally-acceptable disposal of solid waste. On Vavau, current arrangements are not sustainable in the medium -long term; and on other outer islands, formal arrangements for solid waste disposal do not exist. A national, long-term approach to solid waste management is required. Priority initiatives Addressing the challenges facing the Solid Waste sector will require a combination of infrastructure investments and complementary initiatives. In conjunction with initiatives already underway and committed, the priority infrastructure investment for the Solid Waste sector for the next five years is: Improved solid waste disposal arrangements for Haapai (T$ 4.0 million).
This investment responds to the current lack of formal arrangements for solid wast e disposal on Haapai and resulting public health and environmental issues, including potential contamination of the water supply. It links with TSDF Outcome Objective 3 and Strategy 12, which prioritises Improving and where possible expanding the safe collection, disposal and recycling of solid and liquid waste to protect peoples health and the environment. Several options have been suggested, including the development of an engineered sanitary landfill on Haapai, or establishing a transfer station on Haapai then transporting the waste to Tongatapu for disposal in the existing Tapuhia landfill. The first step is to complete a feasibility study of options, and then investment will be required to implement the preferred option. As noted above, investment will also be required in the medium-longer term on Vavau to provide a long term solution to its solid waste disposal needs. These investments and initiatives, which are underway as part of the NUDSP, will address urgent problems. However, national, long-term approach to solid waste management is required. Initial work has been done on preparing a (Draft) National Integrated Waste Management Strategy for Tonga , but it is important now to finalise the strategy and prepare an implementation roadmap. Based on the outcomes of the sector strategy, further infrastructure investment in solid waste management infrastructure is likely to be warranted. These linked investments are likely to include additional steps in the WAL equipment renewal program (septage trucks, compactor, etc); a weighbridge at Tapuhia; and refurbishment/expansion of existing facilities to increase capacity to treat septage at Tapuhia, at total cost of around T$5.0 million. In summary, the priority program for the Solid Waste sector is shown in Figure 3.5.
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Ongoing Program
Continue WAL operational improvement program Implement reforms and investments under NUDSP Upgrading of existing land-fill facility on Vavau
Priority Investments
Improved Solid Waste disposal arrangements for Haapai (S6 T$4m)
Complementary Initiatives
Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a 5-10 year investment plan.
Linked Investments
Upgrade arrangements for collection and treatment of sewage sludge and other solid waste on Tongatapu (S1,2 T$5m) Other investments arising from the Sector Roadmap
ROADS
Current situation Tongas network of roads measures some 650km of which around 40 per cent is paved. Tonga has one of the highest 13 levels of road network density in the region. This network provides good access links to communities in terms of connectivity, but in some areas the condition of roads has deteriorated significantly due to insufficient emphasis on maintenance. Government is addressing this problem by implementing several road rehabilitation and upgrading programs in association with its development partners. The National Roads Improvement Project has rehabilitated selected trunk roads throughout the country; the Nukualofa Redevelopment program improved roads in the town centre; the IUDSP is upgrading major routes into Nukualofa from the south ; and some rehabilitation of select road sections has occurred as part of the TSCP. In total, around 150km of roads out of a total network of some 650km have been rehabilitated 14 over the last five years, predominantly on Tongatapu. The TSCP is also trialling a new approach to road maintenance that makes greater use of private sector involvement. Contracts for routine maintenance have been awarded to private firms and are underway. Studies underway as part of the TSCP program provide a strategy for road maintenance over the next five to 10 years, including recommendations for road maintenance programming, institutional reform, and the role of the private sector. In addition to these broader programs, commitments are already in place for specific investments to rehabilitate the Vaipua Bridge (Vavau) and Foa Causeway (Haapai). Furthermore, Government has approved the establishment of a dedicated Road Fund to ensure long term sustainable maintenance of the road network. The Road Fund will be progressively implemented from the second half of 2013, and when fully operational by 2017, is expected to collect around T$6-7 million per year for spending on routine and periodic maintenance of roads.
13 14
Measured in terms of road length/square km of land area. See: Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility, Pacific Infrastructure Performance Indicators (2011). Of the 150km of roads rehabilitated under these programs, around 133km are on Tongatapu and 17 km on outer islands.
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Challenges Roads play a vital role in social and business connectivity. Recent road improvement programs have addressed problems with some parts of the national road network (especially trunk roads on Tongatapu), but other branches of the network continue to be in poor condition, especially outer islands and agricultural roads on Tongatapu. This is exerting a significant negative impact on the cost of road transport; links to market for agricultural and fisheries producers; the tourism industry; and social connectivity. The main challenge driving the need for investment in roads is to accelerate the process of progressively clearing the backlog of road repairs and rehabilitate the road system to a standard where it can be sustainably maintained in a cost-effective way using local resources and expertise. In the longer term, routine and periodic maintenance will be provided under the Road Fund, but many roads have already degraded to a point where urgent intervention is required. Priority initiatives Governments priority for the Roads sector is to continue the emphasis on maintenance. This will require investments in road rehabilitation and changes to the way that maintenance is funded and managed. As noted above, Government has already approved the establishment of a Road Fund to finance routine and periodic maintenance of roads. In addition, it is important to consolidate the role of the private sector in delivering vital road maintenance activities. This is already happening under the TSCP and it is important that these reforms continue. From an additional investment perspective, the highest priority is: Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program (R10 - T$10 million). This program would involve rehabilitation and resealing of around 60km of roads on Vavau, Haapai, Eua , and Niuafoou. This will deliver significant benefits in terms of improved connectivity and economic development opportunities (especially for the priority sectors of agriculture, fisheries, and tourism); and will support strong inclusive communities in the outer islands. Priority will also be given to roads that could act as evacuation routes in times of natural disaster, or could be developed to incorporate a coastal protection function. In addition, the rehabilitation will improve the resilience of selected outer islands roads through the adoption of climate-proofing measures. Overall, the outer islands roads upgrading program will ensure that communities in outer islands share in the benefits from road upgrading programs. In the short-medium term, there is also a priority to clear the backlog of road repair works and rehabilitate trunk and agricultural roads on Tongatapu and other roads that were not addressed as part of recent road programs. In the longer term, Government will continue the emphasis on road maintenance and rehabilitation, and may also consider options for a new road linking Nukualofa with the southern side of Fangauta Lagoon by bridge or causeway. This road would provide better access to the southern and eastern sides of Tongatapu and the airport, and could provide an alternative evacuation/access route in case of natural disaster. However, it will require detailed technical feasibility assessment, environmental approval, and identification of a suitable funding source. Issues related to evacuation routes in case of natural disasters are addressed further under the Multi-Sector category. In summary, the priority program for the Roads sector is shown in Figure 3.6.
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Ongoing Program
Program of road rehabilitation projects already underway (TSCP; IUDP; Vaipua Bridge; and Foa Causeway)
ROADS SECTOR
Priority Investments
Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program (R10 T$10m)
Complementary Initiatives
Implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery under the Road Fund Develop private sector capacity for road maintenance (TSCP)
Linked Investments
Clear the remaining backlog of road repair works to return the network to a condition where it can be sustainably maintained under the Road Fund
MARITIME
Current situation The maritime sector plays a vital role in the Tonga economy and community. It supports tourism; inter-island and international commerce; and inter-island travel for social, educational and medical needs. Based on utilisation estimates from the Tonga Transport Sector Review 2005 and updated in 2012, the existing ports have sufficient capacity for foreseeable needs and there are no plans to build any new ports for commercial shipping operations. In addition, the international ports comply with relevant international and International Maritime Organisation (IMO) operating requirements. Although the port system meets basic needs for coverage, capacity, and compliance, the standard of infrastructure has suffered from a lack of investment in core infrastructure and facilities; and insufficient emphasis on maintenance of outer-island ports and channels. Recent investments in the maritime sector include Government-funded minor works at all ports necessary for the operation of the new inter-island ferry; upgrading of navigational aids and other port upgrades under the TSCP; and investments by Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) from its own resources in upgrading ship and cargo handling facilities and equipment at Queen Salote Wharf (forklifts, fenders, pavements). The cruise ship terminal at Vuna Wharf (Nukualofa) has also been completed and commenced operation in December 2012. Responsibility for implementing these projects is split between the PAT which is responsible for Queen Salote International and Domestic Wharves at Nukualofa, and the MOI which is responsible for all other ports. For the medium-longer term, investment planning for the port sector is less well developed. The sector does not have a current development roadmap, but studies supported under the TSCP are providing greater certainty regarding investment needs for outer-island ports. The PAT is also reviewing its long-term plans for development of Queen Salote International and Domestic wharves at Nukualofa. It is important that an integrated approach is applied that enhances the overall safety, efficiency, and resilience of the port system as a whole.
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Challenges Safety is Governments key priority for the maritime sector. Responding to this challenge will require investment in people, systems, and infrastructure. In particular, the arrival of the new inter-island ferry MV 'Otuanga'ofa has given this service a boost in terms of quality and comfort, but the port infrastructure and shore facilities for passengers and freight are not of the same standard. Maritime training facilities have also suffered from a lack of investment, there is a need to upgrade safety standards and awareness, and rebuild capability in maritime safety oversight. Some of these issues are being addressed as part of the TSCP and other programs, but more needs to be done urgently. The other major challenge driving the need for investment in the ports sector is building resilience to the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. With sea levels predicted to rise by up to 0.6 metres by 2090 and cyclones expected to become more intense, ports are especially at risk (see CCA/DRM risk assessment in Annex D). Ensuring that ports can withstand these impacts and securing continuity of shipping services are high priorities for Government. This is especially important considering the role of shipping in outer islands economies and the critical role played by shipping in post-disaster recovery. It is important to start factoring CCA/DRM into port planning as soon as possible. Priority initiatives Governments highest priority for the Maritime sector is increasing the safety and resilience of all maritime activities, especially in relation to inter-island shipping. This will require investments in infrastructure and complementary initiatives to improve capabilities, facilities, and systems. Because an integrated approach is required, the various needs have been packaged into a single high priority investment program: Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience (P9: preliminary estimate of T$20 million, but specific components could be split out as part of an integrated sector program) The Maritime Needs Safety Assessment 2012 prepared under the TSCP provides a starting point, but more work needs to be done to fully define the components of this program. It is expected that investment will be required in the following areas: upgrading berths and related shore facilities to be more resilient to climate change and natural disasters, as well as improving safety and facilities for passengers and cargo; upgrading navigational aids and channel/mooring markers, and updating hydrographical charts; dredging channels and berths to increase safety in all weathers; building local capacity and systems for enhanced maritime safety oversight; and revitalising local training programs for seafarers and the associated facilities.
The other major priority for the Maritime sector is to update institutional arrangements for managing, maintaining, and financing the outer island ports. As noted above, responsibility for outer islands port operations is with the MOI, but this is inconsistent with the MOIs regulatory role in the maritime sector. The need for improved mechanisms for financing sustainable maintenance of outer-island ports is also a catalyst for reviewing current arrangements. Government is examining a range of options for the institutional structure of the ports system as part of the overall Government Structural Reform process. In summary, the priority program for the Maritime sector is shown in Figure 3.7.
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Ongoing Program
Planned PAT upgrades to core port facilities at Queen Salote Wharf, Nukualofa (PAT) Urgent maritime safety investments under TSCP
MARITIME SECTOR
Priority Investments
Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience project (preliminary estimate of T$20 million but specific investments can be split out)
Complementary Initiatives
Update arrangements for managing and maintaining ports for inter-island shipping Training and capacity development in maritime safety and in pollution response Update/upgrade maritime safety and pollution facilities; hydrographical charts, etc Update/upgrade arrangements for training seafarers Post harvest facilities for fishing and agricultural produce (handling, storage, processing) (initial support provided by EU and Australian Aid)
Linked Investments
Multi-purpose barge for servicing navigational aids, port infrastructure, etc (P17 T$4.5m)
AIRPORTS
Current situation Aviation also plays a vital role in connecting the Tongan economy and community in terms of tourism; inter-island and international commerce; and travel for social, educational and medical needs. The existing commercial airports provide sufficient coverage to all island groups, and at this stage, there are no plans to build any additional airports. The airports have sufficient capacity for expected growth in passenger demand, but the length and current condition of runways place limits on the operation of larger aircraft and much of the infrastructure is either nearing the end of its useful life or requires upgrade to continue to meet international and national safety and security standards. Tonga already meets required service standards and complies with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements, or has been granted a temporary exemption from some requirements during a transition period. All commercial airports in Tonga are managed by TAL. A significant investment program is already underway in the airport sector, with a focus on meeting safety and security compliance requirements in terms of fire and rescue capability, security screening, navigational aids, and runway condition. This includes resurfacing of runways at Fuaamotu and Vavau, which were priority projects und er the first NIIP. The investments are being managed by TAL, with support under the WB-funded TSCP and PAIP programs. Challenges Safety, security, and continuity of service are the key imperatives driving investment and reform in the aviation sector. In the medium-longer term, additional investments will be required to maintain compliance with increasingly stringent industry safety and security requirements; to ensure that current aircraft types and new international and domestic aircraft likely to be used on Tonga services can operate safely and without weight restrictions; and to keep Tonga competitive as an exporter and international travel destination. The other major challenge in the aviation sector is to ensure that a supportive policy and institutional environment is in place for competitive and stable international and domestic air services; and to ensure that the necessary skills and qualifications for effective oversight of international safety and security standards are available in Tonga. This will
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require ongoing capacity building to keep pace with aviation market developments; high industry standards; and rapid technology change. Aviation safety and maintaining vital air service connections is a high priority for Government. Priority initiatives In conjunction with initiatives already underway and committed, Governments highest priority investments proposed for the Aviation sector are: construction of a new Control Tower at Fuaamotu International Airport (T$7.0 millionm). resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, and taxiway (T$9.0 millionm); and
The runway and associated aprons and taxiways at Haapai will require resurfacing within the next five years to ensure safe ongoing operations for aircraft types/sizes likely to operate t o Haapai and for compliance with ICAO requirements. If not resurfaced soon, the continuing deterioration in runway condition will result in operations restricted to small, light aircraft, and eventually closure of the airport. The control tower at Fuaamotu is also in poor condition. It is poorly located relative to the runway and taxiways and lacks up-to-date equipment for communications and aviation traffic management. Construction of a new Control Tower in a new location is a high priority for the next three to five years. These priority investments will complement recent and planned investments in airports and aviation safety by TAL and under the TSCP and PAIP projects. In the longer term, expanding the airport apron and adding new taxiways at Fuaamotu will increase airport capacity and enhance the safety and efficiency of aircraft movements on the ground. There are several high priority complementary initiatives that support the imperatives of safety and connectivity. Foremost is the need for upgrading and capacity development in aviation safety oversight. It is also important to update the policy environment, especially for the domestic aviation market. Over recent years, inter-island air services have been unreliable and the market unstable with several operators entering and leaving the market. This has adversely affected tourism and access to markets for the outer islands producers. Specialist advice supported under the TSCP has developed recommendations on issues such as market entry and regulation. Government will consider these recommendations with the aim of creating a market environment in which stable and reliable inter-island air transport can be assured. The third complementary initiative is to further develop post-harvest facilities (handling, storage, and processing) so that fishing and agricultural produce can be processed and stored for export markets. In summary, the priority program for the Aviation sector is shown in Figure 3.8.
Figure 3.8: Priority program for the aviation sector
Ongoing Program
Ongoing program of safety, security and operational investments, with assistance under TSCP and PAIP Rehabilitation of runways at Fuaamotu and Vavau airports (PAIP)
AVIATION SECTOR
Priority Investments
Resurface the runway at Salote Pilolevu airport (Haapai) (A11 T$9 m) New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Airport (A12 T$7m)
Complementary Initiatives
Upgrading and capacity development in aviation safety Update the policy environment for domestic aviation Post harvest facilities (initial support under EU program)
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MULTI-SECTOR
Current situation Multi-sector projects generally fall into two broad categories. The first involves complex construction projects with the need for coordination across several sectors, such as electricity, telecommunications, roads, and water. The Nukualofa CBD redevelopment is an example is this type of multi-sector project. It involved upgrading basic infrastructure in the CBD area, including roads, underground power and additional High Voltage supply, drainage, grey water collection system, footpaths, and street lighting. Another example is restoration of basic infrastructure on Niuatoputapu following the tsunami in 2009. Complex multi-sector projects expected in the next five to 10 years include preparation for the Pacific Games 2019 and the planned Government Ministerial Complex. The second category involves cross-cutting issues, especially CCA and DRM. Government is committed to working with development partners to better manage CCA/DRM risks, and initiatives are already underway to strengthen Government capability in this area and ensure that adequate consideration is given to CCA/DRM issues in infrastructure development. The Joint Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management 2010-2015 (JNAP) has been prepared with assistance from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Applied Geoscience and Technology Division of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC-SOPAC), and United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and implementation is underway. In addition, a Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga has been prepared under the Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) process. These documents provide a framework for developing and implementing infrastructure responses to CCA/DRM. Challenges Tonga is especially vulnerable to CCA/DRM impacts. Best available scientific advice indicates that Tongas climate is changing and is expected to continue to change. The greatest risks to infrastructure result from the increase in extremes: more very hot days, increased rainfall intensity, and more powerful cyclones. Coupled with sea level rise and storm surge, this creates significant challenges for the future of infrastructure development. In addition, Tonga is at risk from earthquake and tsunami, and in places, volcanic eruption. The overall challenge is firstly to ensure that potential CCA/DRM impacts are considered in all aspects of infrastructure planning, design, construction, and management; and secondly that Tonga is well-prepared to respond quickly and effectively to disasters when they happen. Another key multi-sector challenge is coordination of infrastructure construction and delivery of services. As noted above, major infrastructure projects generally have implications for a range of infrastructure services (electricity, water, sanitation, roads, telecommunications), as well as possible environmental impacts. The Nukualofa CBD redevelopment is a recent example, and as Tonga develops, infrastructure projects are getting larger and more complex. Even smaller projects such as road rehabilitation can affect electricity and water supply lines and drainage. To avoid delays and inefficiency, Government and Public Enterprises must be ready to respond to these opportunities quickly and in a coordinated way. The challenge also encompasses coordination of infrastructure development with broader spatial planning and urban development. The recent adoption of the National Spatial Planning and Management Act 2012 is a major Government initiative towards a more systematic and integrated approach. The third challenge is asset management, and especially maintenance. Even though maintenance is less visible, it is more likely to have a greater positive influence on economic output than new investment. Some Public Enterprises have effective maintenance programs in place, but overall, there has been under-investment and insufficient attention to maintenance in the infrastructure sector. The challenge is to look after existing and new infrastructure better through improved maintenance; and to develop a more systematic and effective approach to asset management across the infrastructure sector as a whole. Priority initiatives From a capital investment perspective, Governments highest Multi-sector priorities are in building greater resilience to climate change and natural disasters: Coastal Protection for Eastern Tongatapu (M2 T$15 million); and Infrastructure to enhance Disaster Response & Evacuation (M4 T$12 million).
15
15
Pacific Climate Change Science Program, Current and future climate of Tonga (2011), www.pacificclimatechangescience.org.
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The first of the priority investment projects involves rehabilitation and construction of foreshore protection structures along approximately 8km of the north-eastern coast of Tongatapu between Nukuleka and Manuka. It will provide greater resilience against sea level rise, cyclone impacts, storm surges, and tsunamis for six villages with housing and road infrastructure located in close proximity to the shoreline. This location was rated as a very high priority because of its existing high degree of vulnerability to wave action and sea level rise; the proximity of development to the coastline; and the extent of erosion already taking place and degraded state of existing coastal protection. The second project involves a range of infrastructure to support disaster response coordination and capacity and to support community evacuation prior to natural disaster events. It would provide better and more resilient facilities for the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) and Tonga Meteorological Office (TMO); construction of joint, climate-proof disaster command centres; improved communications through connection of this facility to the underground fibre optic cable that is currently being developed throughout Nukualofa; and the infrastructure required to support implementation of the Tongatapu Tsunami Evacuation Plan that is currently in preparation. There are also a range of priority complementary initiatives designed to improve the performance of the economic infrastructure sector as a whole. These include: Institutional reform to clarify and simplify responsibilities across all sectors. This is part of the Governments Structural Reform process designed to streamline delivery of Government services, with the aim to reduce costs while improving efficiency. It also has implications for improved arrangements for the coordination of major projects with multi-sector implications. Government intends to strengthen the role of the MOI and the National Spatial Planning Authority as focal points for coordinating the planning and delivery of multisector infrastructure projects. Another aspect of this priority is improved monitoring and enforcement of existing standards and requirements. This includes strengthening the EIA system and capacity, and ensuring that legislated environmental management standards are applied to all major infrastructure projects. Mainstreaming CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards, and management. This priority builds on and enhances initiatives under the JNAP process. An important foundation for this process is the availability of good quality and timely weather and climate data and predictions. Therefore, upgrading Meteorological services and capability is also an important part of this complementary activity. Annex D provides more detail on mainstreaming CCA/DRM into infrastructure development. Developing and implementing a national policy and strategy for strategic asset management. The NIIP is an important step towards establishing asset management as a core function of Government and infrastructure managers; instilling a greater emphasis on maintenance; and incorporating a life-cycle approach to infrastructure management. An important step in this process is the NUDSP project, which will work with the Water and Solid Waste sectors to develop and implement asset management and maintenance systems appropriate for Tonga. These and other multi-sector priorities are discussed further in the next Chapter in context of discussions about building the foundation of sustainability, safety, and resilience for the infrastructure sector. In summary, the priority program for the Multi-sector cluster is shown in Figure 3.9.
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Ongoing Program
Establishment of MOI and refinement of its role and functions Ongoing CCA/DRM awareness and response, especially through the JNAP process
MULTI-SECTOR
Priority Investments
Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu (M2 T$3.0) Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure (M4 T$12.0)
Complementary Initiatives
Institutional reform to clarify and simplify responsibilities across all sectors. Mainstream CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards and management Upgrade Meteorological services and capability Strengthen EIA system and capacity Develop and implement a national policy and strategy for strategic asset management Improved arrangements for coordination of major projects with multi-sector implications
Linked Investments
Upgrade Meteorological equipment and monitoring network
1 Connecting Tonga
It highlights that NIIP is an integrated response to the infrastructure challenges facing Tonga, with a balance of initiatives targeted at achieving Governments key outcome objectives for the infrastructure sector.
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Table 3.3: Priorities by strategic theme Theme Sector Telecoms Roads Ports Airports Infrastructure for Communities Water Priority Investment Projects T9 - Undersea fibre-optic cable linking Haapai and Vavau with international networks (T$30m)16 T10 - Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery (T$6.0m) R10 - Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program (T$10m) See Sustainability, Safety and Resilience theme. A11 - Resurface the runway at Salote Pilolevu airport (Haapai) (T$9 m) A12 - New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Airport (T$7m) W3 - Outer islands water supply system improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) (T$15.0m) W4 - Expand Nukualofa system to new growth areas. (T$11.4m) S6 - Improved Solid Waste disposal arrangements for Haapai (T$4m) Additional on-grid solar electricity generation - E11 - 1-2 MW on Tongatapu (T$24m) - E16 - Outer islands Vavau, Haapai, Eua (T$9m) Reliable and Affordable Energy Energy Complementary Initiatives Update the access/regulatory regime for telecoms sector Private sector and Government initiatives (e-Government) that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access Develop private sector capacity for road maintenance (TSCP) Post-harvest facilities for fishing and agricultural produce (handling, storage, processing) (initial support provided by EU and Australian Aid) Update the policy environment for domestic aviation Post-harvest facilities (initial support under EU program) Prepare a roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including waste water and drainage. Roadmap should - clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities for water and waste water - explore DSM and other non-infrastructure initiatives - prepare a Drainage Plan for Nukualofa - prepare an investment plan for the next 10 years Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a 5-10 year investment plan. Non-Infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap - Policy, legal, regulatory reform supporting the Energy Roadmap - Research and feasibility studies of alternative energy sources (wind, wave, coconut oil, etc.) - Improved fuel supply chain logistics - Other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap (DSM, etc) Institutional reform to clarify/simplify responsibilities across all sectors Develop and implement a national policy and strategy for strategic asset management Design and implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery (TSCP) Update arrangements for managing and maintaining ports for inter-island shipping Strengthen EIA system and capacity Upgrading and capacity development in maritime safety and pollution response Update/upgrade maritime safety and pollution facilities; hydrographical charts, etc Upgrading and capacity development in aviation safety Mainstream CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards and management Upgrade Meteorological services and capability Improved arrangements for coordination of major projects with multi-sector implications
Connecting Tonga
Solid Waste
Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience project (preliminary estimate of T$20 million but specific investments can be split out) M2 - Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu (T$3.0) M4 - Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure (T$12.0)
Resilience
16
Linked to a proposed extension of the international fibre-optic cable from Tonga to Samoa.
38
Department of Treasury and Finance, Developing Strategic Asset Management Plans, Department of Treasury and Finance (Government of Tasmania: 2004).
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Governments plans and actions to achieve sustainability. Section 4.3 provides more detail on the role of infrastructure in enhancing the resilience of Tonga against climate change and natural disasters.
Financial sustainability
Working with Ministries and Public Enterprises to strengthen their capacity in financial planning; evaluation of the feasibility of proposed infrastructure investments; and preparation of a business case for Government or Board, with full consideration of life-cycle costs. This is part of ongoing initiatives by Government, with assistance from development partners, to strengthen the Corporate Planning process and implement the MTBF. Working with Ministries and Public Enterprises to further strengthen financial and cost recovery performance to help ensure that there are adequate financial resources for the sustainable management of infrastructure. Wherever possible, Government considers that infrastructure services should be delivered through a commercial model that fully recovers the cost of operation. The improved financial performance of Public Enterprises and approved implementation of a Road Fund are examples of progress in this area, but striving for improvement in financial performance is an ongoing process. Government, with assistance from development partners, will continue to work with Ministries and Public Enterprises to further strengthen financial performance. Retaining a clear commercial focus of Public Enterprises. This includes transparent identification of community service obligations and their funding; careful consideration of Board appointments; and continued monitoring and reporting of financial performance by the Ministry of Public Enterprises.
Operational sustainability
Promoting the principles of strategic asset management as a framework for an improved approach to infrastructure management by Ministries and Public Enterprises, and facilitating a maintenance culture within organisations that is driven at the Board and CEO level. The NUDSP will be a focus for broader progress in this area. In addition, the Government intends to formalise the imperative for improved asset management by incorporating asset management as a performance indicator for Ministries and Public Enterprises. Placing a greater emphasis on reducing the demand for new assets by making better use of existing infrastructure, through measures such as demand management techniques, improved efficiency of service delivery, and consideration of alternative service delivery options. In the long term, this can reduce or delay the need for major infrastructure investment. Strong progress has already been made on improved efficiency of service delivery in the electricity and water sectors, but more needs to be done. The Government will continue to work with Public Enterprises and development partners on further initiatives aimed at making better use of existing infrastructure.
Environmental sustainability
Ensuring that EIA and environmental management planning is undertaken for major infrastructure projects, and strengthening environmental monitoring and enforcement of legislative requirements. In particular, Government intends to put in place procedures for systematic follow-up on the environmental performance of approved projects, and apply legislated penalties where appropriate. This will encourage greater compliance with environmental management requirements. Consideration will also be given to the future development of national environmental pollution standards that can be applied to infrastructure development. Harmonising environmental legislation and the role of institutions in operational terms to avoid duplication and inconsistencies, and simplify processes. In particular, the Government will introduce administrative
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measures to clarify responsibilities and harmonise the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2010, and National Spatial Planning and Management Act 2012 in operational terms and to avoid duplication and inconsistencies.
Institutional sustainability
Setting the ground rules appropriately because infrastructure relies on having effective public policies, institutions, and legislation. The establishment and strengthening of the MOI is a key Government initiative towards improved governance in the infrastructure sector. Continuing initiatives under the Government Structural Reform process to clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities and streamline Government procedures, so that lines of responsibility are clearly drawn and there is a single coordinating agency for each sub-sector. The Change Management process currently underway in the MOI with assistance under the TSCP will help to clarify and streamline Government involvement in the infrastructure sector. Working with development partners to build technical and management capacity in Ministries and Public Enterprises for infrastructure planning, management, operation, and regulatory oversight (as appropriate). Government will continue to maintain an emphasis on technical and management capacity building as an integral part of development assistance projects.
Safety
Taking a leading role, with MOI as the lead agency, in developing appropriate national safety standards, and effective monitoring and enforcement of compliance with national and international standards. Governments highest priority is maritime safety. Progress is being made with maritime safety, as well as aviation and road safety, under the TSCP and PAIP programs but more needs to be done urgently. The Government is committed to working closely with development partners to improve safety, especially in the transport sector.
Resilience
Mainstreaming CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards, and management; upgrading the enabling environment through better decision support information and tools; updating planning processes, policy, and legislation to better reflect the priority that Government places on infrastructure resilience and broader CCA/DRM issues; and building institutional frameworks and capacity to support these initiatives. Initiatives are already underway and progress on mainstreaming CCA/DRM issues has been made under the JNAP process. Further progress is expected as part of implementation of the Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga that has been prepared under the PPCR process.
4.2 Resilience
Resilience is about protecting infrastructure assets, people, and the economy against climate change and natural disasters, and the ability to recover quickly and effectively when disasters happen. Tonga is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, and to the effects of climate variability and long-term climate change (see Annex D for details). Tonga averages T$30 million per year in losses from cyclones and earthquakes, has a 50 per cent chance of 18 experiencing a loss exceeding T$300 million, and casualties exceeding 440 people in the next 50 years. Much of the economic loss from natural disasters results either directly or indirectly from damage to infrastructure. In addition, infrastructure can have a very long operational life, up to and exceeding 100 years for some types. Therefore, it makes sense to now start planning, designing, building, and operating infrastructure with a view to resilience to long term climate change and natural disasters. This is recognised in the TSDF which includes disaster risk management and climate change adaptation, integrated into all planning and implementation of programmes ... as part of the headline Outcome Objectives.
18
Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI), 2011. Country Risk Profile for Tonga.
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Infrastructure projects contained in the NIIP have optimal levels of climate resilience , and where relevant have been developed to maximise their climate change adaptation and/or DRM function.
19
The following principles were developed to allow realisation of this vision: 1. Mainstreaming of DRM and CCA issues: DRM and CCA are mainstreamed throughout all stages of NIIP2 development; this includes consideration of CCA/DRM issues in project identification and prioritisation, project development and costing, and monitoring and evaluation. Short-term and long-term climate risks: Consideration is given both to existing and short-term future climate risks, and, as relevant to the lifespan of infrastructure included in the NIIP2, future changes in the frequency and/or intensity of extreme events and long term changes in average climate. Integration throughout infrastructure life-cycle: DRM and CCA issues are considered throughout the life cycle of planned investments; i.e. throughout planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance, costing, and budgeting. DRM and CCA enabling environment: Actions to enhance the enabling environment for DRM and CCA are considered in line with infrastructure investments to ensure that the necessary software is in place to maximise the effectiveness of investments. Cost-effectiveness of actions: Actions relating to DRM and CCA issues are based on a no-regrets and lowregrets approach to project identification to optimise the cost effectiveness of future investments. Adaptive management approach: Integration of DRM and CCA issues will be viewed as a flexible and ongoing process that is subject to adaptive management principles; the results of monitoring and evaluation will allow future review and refinement of the consideration of DRM and CCA issues in the future iterations of the NIIP.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The steps that were followed in applying these principles are illustrated in Figure 4.1.
Figure 4.1: Actions to integrate DRM and CCA issues in the NIIP Develop baseline information on risks posed to economic infrastructure that can be used to guide subsequent steps of process. Identify new economic infrastructure or DRM/CCA projects for long-list, or modify existing projects to address key risks. Include consideration of DRM and CCA issues in overall MCA process to prioritise investments. Evaluate climate impacts on priority economic infrastructure investments and develop and cost resilience building measures. Develop planning, design, construction. and operation details for priority adaptation infrastructure options and undertake costings. Identify the required enabling environment improvements required to support economic and DRM/CCA infrastructure. Identify a mix of suitable funding options that could be leveraged to support resilience building and adaptation infrastructure. Include DRM and CCA considerations in the NIIP monitoring and evaluation framework to facilitate adaptive management.
Step 1: Rapid climate and natural disaster risk assessment Step 2: Long-list of projects
Step 3: Multi-criteria analysis Step 4: Optimise climate resilience of priority economic infrastructure projects Step 5: Optimise functionality of priority adaptation infrastructure projects Step 6: Enabling environment
19
Climate resilience is defined as the ability of assets, networks and systems to anticipate, absorb, adapt to and / or rapidly recover from a disruptive climate event.
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Climate proofing measures in priority projects are discussed in Section 3 and in Annex A. To build resilience for infrastructure, improvements will also be required to strengthen the CCA/DRM enabling environment, including decision support tools; planning, policy and legislation; and institutions and capacity building. This will require an integrated program of investment in technical resources and capacity building. Further progress on mainstreaming CCA/DRM issues is expected as part of the implementation of the Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom Of Tonga, prepared under the PPCR process. Priorities for strengthening the enabling environment and mainstreaming CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards and management, are outlined in Table 4.1. More detail on each of these priorities is provided in Annex D.
Table 4.1: Priorities for strengthening the CCA/DRM enabling environment Key areas Priorities Reinforcement of the Hydro-Meteorological Monitoring Network by the installation of additional monitoring equipment, including weather radar stations, oceanic parameter monitoring equipment (e.g. sea surface temperature and tidal gauges), and upgraded monitoring stations on outer islands. Risk Modelling and Mapping for tsunami and storm surge. Climate Projections at a level of detail required to feed into the revision of Building Code and Road Design Standard Revision. Groundwater Capacity Analysis, because there is currently little information on groundwater capacity on outer islands yet groundwater resources are already subject to saline intrusion as a result of sea level rise and storm surge. Revision of National Building Code and Road Design Standard to take into account predicted future climate change. This is one of the highest overall priorities for enabling environment improvement. National and Sub-National Climate and Natural Disaster Risk Plan Preparation, based on the results of risk mapping. DRM/CCA Checklist for Infrastructure Planning, to help ensure systematic consideration of DRM and CCA issues in the early stages of planning. Infrastructure Post-Disaster Response Planning, that includes adoption of a Build Back Better policy that requires adoption of climate resilient design standards for post-disaster rehabilitation or upgrading works so that climate resilience of the infrastructure stock is progressively increased. Planning for Climate Resilient Infrastructure Monitoring and Maintenance, including development of a manual that addresses standard requirements for pre- and post-wet season and pre- and post-cyclone event monitoring and maintenance. Revision of Legal Framework, with priority actions for integration of CCA/DRM issues into legislation that regulates environmental approvals for infrastructure development (i.e. the Environmental Assessment Act 2003, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010 and the Spatial Planning and Management Act 2012). Guidelines on Coastal Protection and Resilient Water Supply, including development of user-friendly, nontechnical guidelines on the development of foreshore protection and climate resilient rural water supply schemes. Strengthening of CCA and DRM Focal Points, by targeted capacity building for personnel in the MLECCNR, JNAP Secretariat, Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) and NEMO in relation to climate change projections, climate and natural disaster risk analysis for infrastructure, and disaster response planning. Strengthening of the Coordination Role of JNAP, and establishing arrangements for continuity of the functions of the JNAP Secretariat. Capacity Building within Line Ministries, especially the MLECCNR and the National Spatial Planning Authority to ensure adequate technical resources and capacity in relation to CCA/DRM issues. Technical Training related to Revised Building Code and Road Design Standard. Ongoing and regular capacity building for personnel and community leaders on outer islands, and broad community awareness raising on climate and natural disaster risks and response planning, and disaster response drills.
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5 Funding strategy
The function of the NIIP is to set out Governments priorities in terms of infrastructure investments; strengthening the foundation of sustainability, safety, and resilience; and also to set the scene in terms of delivery mechanisms. This part of the NIIP looks at the overall demand for infrastructure financing, potential financing options, and develops an overall funding strategy for how the infrastructure priorities will be delivered.
Capital investment
Capital expenditure on infrastructure projects over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 will come from four sources: Projects that that were identified in NIIP2010 and whose implementation is currently underway and will continue during the NIIP2013 timeframe. As shown in Table 3.2, this component is estimated at T$100 million over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18; Projects that that were identified in NIIP2010, have committed funding, and will commence implementation during the NIIP2013 five-year timeframe at an estimated cost of T$73 million (see Table 3.2); High priority additional projects identified in this NIIP (see Chapter 3). If all of the high priority projects forge ahead as planned, this will involve an estimated T$173 million in additional infrastructure investment; and Other smaller investments (mostly by Public Enterprises) that are part of their own investments programs but are not major projects captured by the NIIP process. Based on current expenditure patterns (Annex E), this is estimated to total around T$8 million per year.
If all of these investments go ahead as planned, demand for capital investment over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 is estimated at total T$385 million. Phasing of expected capital expenditure over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 is shown in Table 5.2 and reveals high levels of investment in 2013/14 and 2014/15, after which levels will decline. To put these investments in perspective, the peak level of investment in 2013/14 is equivalent to almost 15 per cent of GDP, while the average annual level of investment over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 is equivalent to eight per cent of GDP. These levels of investment in infrastructure are high, particularly in the first two years of the plan period. In part, this is a result of several large projects that are already underway or committed and being scheduled for implementation over the 2013/14-2014/15 period. This includes laying of the undersea fibre-optic communications cable to Fiji and resurfacing of the Fuaamotu and Vavau airport runways. These three projects have some T$90 million of committed expenditure. This tends to distort the expected expenditure profile. However, it should also be recognised that the peak level of T$110-120 million in the first two years of this Plan is lower than recent peaks in infrastructure investment (T$140 million in 2010/11 on projects covered by NIIP2010); and the overall average level of investment of eight per cent over the five-year plan period is consistent with international norms for developing 20 countries, though at the upper end of the scale.
Complementary initiatives
Chapter 3 set out the full range of complementary activities required to support implementation of the NIIP. Table F.2 in Annex F provides a breakdown of estimated costs of these complementary initiatives. At this stage, it is not possible to precisely estimate the cost of each individual activity, but in total it is anticipated that all the complementary activities, which mostly involve consulting services, may amount to T$15 million over the five-year priority period covered by this NIIP.
20
According to the World Banks World Development Report for 1994, Infrastructure for Development, public investment in infrastructure in developing countries ranges from two per cent to eight per cent (and averages four per cent) of GDP.
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Maintenance
Turning to maintenance, Table 5.1 shows the annual maintenance expenditure requirements for NIIP projects (underway, committed high priority proposed) at the end of the first five years of this NIIP (2017/18), with a breakdown by project status and responsibility. These maintenance requirements are separate from the capital expenditure requirements set out above. Estimated forward maintenance costs were calculated using rules of thumb for maintenance requirements of different types of infrastructure. Infrastructure was classified as fixed or mobile, and as having a short, medium, or long lifespan, and maintenance rates were specified accordingly. It is assumed that mobile infrastructure with a short lifespan requires the highest level of maintenance (3.5 per cent of capital cost per annum), while fixed infrastructure with a long lifespan requires the lowest level of maintenance (two per cent of capital cost per annum, or lower in some cases).
Table 5.1: Annual maintenance expenditure requirements at the end of 2017/18 (T$ million) Government NIIP2010 investments (underway, committed) NIIP2013 high priority proposed investments 0.9 1.2 Public Enterprises 4.8 2.1 Total 5.7 3.3
Around 35 per cent of the estimated total annual requirement of T$9.0 million relates to high priority proposed projects; most (75 per cent) accrues to Public Enterprises; and almost all of the Government component relates to road maintenance. However most of this is not new maintenance. Many NIIP projects upgrade/repair/rehabilitate existing infrastructure and so do not produce new maintenance liabilities and in some cases may lead to a reduction in required maintenance spending. Therefore to avoid double-counting, it is necessary to consider demand for maintenance spending from three sources: maintenance of existing infrastructure, including investments from the NIIP2010 program that were already operational in 2011/12. This is estimated to total some T$10.5 million per year, including T$6.8 million on road maintenance (sustainable maintenance level from calculations conducted for establishment of the Road Fund), around T$0.3 million on maintenance of outer islands ports (see Annex E), and around T$3.4 million by Public Enterprises with maintenance spending at an average of two per cent of asset value (Annex E); new maintenance requirements from NIIP2010 projects that are underway and committed. This figure will be lower than the T$5.7 million shown in Table 5.1 because about half of the required maintenance spending relates to the upgrade/repair/rehabilitation of existing infrastructure assets; and new maintenance requirements from high priority projects proposed by this NIIP (Annex E).
Table 5.2 shows the estimated annual maintenance expenditure requirement for the first five years of this NIIP for each of these components.
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Table 5.2: Total demand for infrastructure finance (T$ million) 2013/14 Capital Investment NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority Other smaller items of capital expenditure Complementary initiatives NIIP2013 Maintenance Pre-existing assets 1 NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority Total Notes: 1 Including NIIP2010 assets operational in 2011/12 10.5 0.5 0.3 142 10.5 2.5 0.8 136 10.5 2.5 1.5 92 10.5 2.5 2.0 58 10.5 2.5 2.1 41 52.5 10.4 6.7 470 3 3 3 3 3 15 104 16 8 49 62 8 7 60 8 8 24 8 5 10 8 173 172 40 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 Total
In recent years, additional sources of finance for investment in infrastructure have emerged which include: grants and concessional loans from non-traditional development partners (mirroring an international trend for non-Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) nations to play a more significant role in development cooperation); grants, rather than the traditional concessional loans, from international financial institutions (though this form of assistance may be considered a temporary response to difficult economic conditions); regional development assistance programs, which have begun to combine south-south cooperation together with the financing of some quite major infrastructure (commitment to finance investments in airports in Tonga under the PAIP being an important example); private sector involvement in the provision of infrastructure, in particular the opening of the telecommunications market to competition and the entry of Digicel; and dedicated funding for adaptation to climate change, disaster risk management, and more general environmental management.
Not all of these developments in relation to sources of funding, and notably, the availability of funding for airport redevelopment under the PAIP were foreseen at the time NIIP2010 was prepared. In relation to the financing of this NIIP, the tight fiscal situation facing Government will restrict the options available to finance the investment priorities. In particular, the Government is unlikely to be in a position to finance major 21 infrastructure from domestic revenues, and an announced interim no new loans policy will remove additional concessional borrowing as an option at least in the early years of the plan period. Most economic infrastructure in 22 Tonga is now managed and operated by Public Enterprises, so the Government will be looking to work closely with Public Enterprises and also with the private sector and development partners to make the infrastructure development in this NIIP a reality.
See summary of fiscal policy in Government of Tonga Budget Statement for the year ending 30 June 2013, page 8 Government retains direct responsibility only for the road network and outer island ports, but remains involved in the planning and financing of major infrastructure owned and operated by Public Enterprises
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Government finance
Tonga is emerging from a period of high budget deficits resulting from imbalance between domestic revenues and expenditures, and a high level of capital expenditure (with a high proportion financed from concessional borrowing). The fiscal deficit was equivalent to roughly six per cent of GDP in 2009/10 and 2010/11, and a projected 2.7 per cent of GDP in 2011/12. However, this is expected to turn around in the short-medium term. Government has budgeted for a small surplus in 2012/13, and surpluses in the order of one per cent of GDP are projected in the next three financial years. This has been achieved through fiscal tightening, access to budget support funding from development partners, and a reduction in capital expenditure. Although more Public Enterprises are paying dividends to Government (total around T$1.7 million in 2011/12), dividends are not significant in the infrastructure financing context nor are they likely to be so in the medium term. Overall, this means that the Government has very limited capacity for financing economic infrastructure investment either from its Budget or through borrowing. At the end of 2011/12, the Government carried T$350 million of indebtedness by way of direct borrowings and loan guarantees (see Annex E for details), and the most recent Debt Sustainability Assessment (DSA) undertaken jointly by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and WB in early 2012 concluded that Tonga remains at a high risk of debt distress. As a result, the Government has adopted an interim no new loans policy. On the other hand, with the improving Budget position and establishment of a Road Fund, Government funding of maintenance of infrastructure is in a position to increase, as discussed below. If the proposed extension of the fibre-optic cable from Tonga to Samoa materialises, part of the costs of the high priority project T9 (Undersea cable linking Haapai and Vavau) would be covered by linking into this international connection. If the international cable project is not pursued, further analysis will be necessary to establish the preferred least cost technological option of connecting the northern island groups.
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Table 5.3: Analysis of capacity for self-funding infrastructure costs Sector Energy Agency Tonga Power Ltd Tonga Communications Corp Telecommunications Tonga Broadcasting Corp Water Waste Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Ltd Ports Authority of Tonga Transport Tonga Airports Ltd Operations High High High High Medium High High Maintenance High High Medium High Low High High Small CAPEX High High Medium Medium Low High High Medium CAPEX High High Low Low Low High High Large CAPEX Medium Medium Low Low Low Low Low
Maintenance funding
Government policy is that the cost of operations and maintenance of economic infrastructure should be funded from user charges wherever possible. Public Enterprises (with the exception of WAL) have the capacity to self-finance a reasonable level of expenditure on maintenance, but some are neglecting maintenance and most would benefit from greater attention to improvements in asset management. Public Enterprises currently spend around T$4 million per annum on maintenance (see Annex E for details), which in aggregate is above basic maintenance requirements (around two percent of asset value on average). The main sectors which appear to have a significant gap in maintenance expenditures are water and aviation. In the aviation sector, this can be at least partly explained by the
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major infrastructure renewal program underway and the high asset value. Asset management in WAL and the TWB is being addressed under the NUDSP with the intention that the principles developed under this project will be adopted more broadly. In recent years, Government spending on the maintenance and rehabilitation of roads and outer island ports has been patchy and below sustainable levels. As noted above, Government has approved the establishment of a Road Fund that will provide dedicated financing of routine and periodic maintenance of the road network at a long term sustainable level, with most work contracted out to the private sector. The next step is to update the institutional arrangements for managing and maintaining outer islands ports. This is identified in this NIIP as a priority initiative for the ports sector.
Overall, Tonga will need to adopt a partnership approach to infrastructure delivery with Government, Public Enterprises, and the private sector working closely together with the support of development partners. In particular, support from Development Partners in the form of grants will be needed to help finance the high priority investment projects and technical assistance for complementary initiatives identified in this NIIP.
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Taking these factors and the above analysis of potential funding sources into account, the key aspects of the funding strategy for infrastructure development and asset management over the next five-years are: Improving Budget conditions are expected to enable Government to make a small contribution to infrastructure investment (average around T$1 million per year) and to increase spending on maintenance of outer islands ports to sustainable levels, either through direct Budget allocation and/or improved cost recovery. Development and implementation of improved mechanisms for management and financing of outer islands ports is an important planned complementary initiative of this NIIP. The Road Fund recently established by Government will transform financing of road maintenance. The Fund will be phased in over several years and when fully operational will provide more than T$6 million each year for routine and periodic maintenance. Public Enterprises are expected to continue their strengthening their financial performance, and cover required maintenance and make infrastructure investment from their own resources. Based on current levels of expenditure (Annex E) and assuming some strengthening in financial resources, it is expected that Public Enterprises will lift spending on infrastructure, and contribute around T$35 million of spending on required maintenance; and around T$80 million to financing capital expenditure in infrastructure over the five-year period. This includes contributions to NIIP2013 high priority projects, to major investment projects already underway or committed, and to planned smaller investments that are part of the Public Enterprises own investment program. The proposed new control tower at Fuaamotu and the expansion of the Nukualofa water system are two NIIP priority projects that could involve at least partial self-financing by the Public Enterprise responsible, in this case by TAL and the TWB respectively. Development partners are expected to continue to provide support for economic infrastructure and associated technical assistance and capacity building, but the mix of sources may change. As noted above, major development partners have committed some T$380 million in assistance for recent and planned infrastructure projects. With the Governments no new loans policy in place, it is expected that the balance of sources will change, with an increase in grant finance to make up for lower utilisation of concessional loan finance, and a greater contribution from new sources, including regional and global funds, such as growing support for CCA/DRM activities. Government will take a lead role in facilitating CCA/DRM investments, a key emerging priority in the NIIP process. It is not expected that the private sector will contribute significantly to capital investment in infrastructure in the short-medium term, but as noted above, will play a critical and increasing role as a service provider in terms of design, construction, operations, and specialist technical services.
The funding strategy as explained above is summarised in Table 5.4 below with the indicative breakdown of funding sources for the NIIP.
Table 5.4: Indicative Infrastructure Budget for 2013/14 - 2017/18 (T$ million) Funding Source Demand for Funding Capital Investment Complementary Activities Maintenance Total $385 $15 $70 $470 Government $5 $35 $40 Public Enterprises $80 $35 $115 Development Partners $300 $15 $315
Government will continue to invest in the economic infrastructure sector, but as outlined above, its capacity to fund additional infrastructure, beyond what is already committed, is extremely limited. A key role that Government will continue to play is to facilitate a partnership approach to infrastructure delivery by brokering arrangements for funding infrastructure and working with key stakeholders in the infrastructure sector to improve the environment for infrastructure financing. This will involve: identifying and building awareness of traditional, new and innovative financing sources and mechanisms (such as new opportunities emerging for funding CCA/DRM initiatives from regional and global programs);
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helping to coordinate the dialogue between sources of funding and infrastructure managers; working with infrastructure managers to design and implement financing packages for major projects. This may involve a combination of one or more sources such as Public Enterprise resources, development partner grants, commercial loans, and in some cases, Government budget and private equity. Development of the Tonga-Fiji undersea communications cable is an example of a project with a more complex package of funding modalities. The MFNP has a key role to play in this area and the Government is strengthening its capability to coordinate infrastructure financing; working with infrastructure managers (with support from development partners) on complementary initiatives aimed at improving the financial and operational performance of infrastructure management, improving asset management and maintenance, and thereby creating an improved environment for infrastructure development and financing; and engaging further with the private sector with a view to it taking on more significant roles in infrastructure in the future.
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In years when there is a partial or full update of the NIIP, this will replace the annual NIIP Monitoring Report.
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23
Linked to proposed extension of the international fiber-optic cable between Tonga and Samoa
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Sector MARITIME
T$ m
T$ m
P6 Replace Fender at QSW International Wharf P3 Reseal Queen Salote Wharf (Int. and Dom.)
MOI
AIRPORTS A6 Upgrade International Arrivals (Fuaamotu) A8 Resurface Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway A10 Resurface Vavau runway, apron, taxiway $2 $38 $11 A11 Resurface Haapai runway, apron, taxiway A12 New Control Tower at Fuaamotu Airport MULTI M2 Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu M4 Disaster Response & Evacuation Infrastructure $15 $12 MLECCNR, MOI MOI, MLECCNR $9 $7 TAL TAL TAL TAL TAL
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a brief description of the indicator in terms of what it aims to achieve the desired outcome (benchmark levels and targets to be confirmed as part of the first NIIP Monitoring Report) the agency(s) that are responsible for monitoring progress and providing data links to other key strategic and monitoring documents, especially TSDF and MDGs
Indicator NIIP AWARNESS, IMPACT AND MANAGEMENT NIIP is widely available in electronic form NIIP is widely available in printed form Percentage of projects in NIIP with identified funding within 3 years NIIP has an incremental update every 2-3 years NIIP has a full update every 3-4 years Institutional arrangements in place for monitoring and updating the NIIP CONNECTING TONGA Speed of internet services available to all parts of the Kingdom Cost of internet and mobile phone services to all parts of the Kingdom Percentage of road network rated in good/fair condition Number of airports meeting relevant international safety and security requirements Number of sea ports meeting relevant international safety and security requirements INFRASTRUCTURE FOR COMMUNITIES Proportion of population with access to basic services (electricity, water, improved sanitation) RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ENERGY Proportion of Tongas energy needs met by renewable energy Percentage of villages/towns with 24 hour energy supply Cost of electricity
Target
Source/ Responsibility
Linkages
Available on GoT/MFNP/MOI websites Brochure version of NIIP prepared and distributed More than 50% Completed Completed Completed and adopted
MFNP, MOI MFNP, MOI MFNP, MOI MFNP, MOI MFNP, MOI MFNP, MOI
Increased Decreased [in real terms from 2012 level] Increased [consistent with TSCP targets] All All
MCI MCI
MOI
TSCP
TSDF TSDF
TSDF, MDGs
Increased [target 50%] Increased Stable or reduced [in real terms from 2012 level]
TSDF TSDF
SUSTAINABILITY, SAFETY, RESILIENCE National asset management policy developed and adopted Review of Government functions in the infrastructure sector to streamline processes and address gas/overlaps EIA conducted for major infrastructure projects Completed Completed and Implemented 100% MOI MOI, MFNP MLECCNR TSDF
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Indicator Arrangements for sustainable funding and maintenance of roads Arrangements for sustainable funding and maintenance of outer islands ports Number of fatal accidents on roads CCA/DRM issues integrated into legislation that regulates environmental approvals for infrastructure development (Environmental Assessment Act 2003; Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010; Spatial Planning and Management Act 2012) Revised Building Code and national Road Design Standard that take into account latest information on CCA/DRM risks CCA/DRM Checklist for Infrastructure Planning
Target Implemented Implemented Reduced (target 50% reduction from 2012 level)
Linkages
MOI, Police
MLECCNR
TSDF
Key Performance Indicators per sub sector Subsector Indicators ICT/ Telecommunications Access: Access to Electricity | Electricity Production (Capacity and Actual) Affordability: Electricity Tariffs (Commercial and Residential) Energy Use: Total Fuel Imports | TOE per capita | Renewable Energy Share | Clean Energy Contribution Efficiency: Distribution Losses Access: Fixed Line, Mobile Subscriptions and Internet Users per 100 People | Total Teledensity | Fixed Broadband Subscribers per 100 People Affordability: Telecommunications Service Price as % of Average Monthly Income (Fixed Line, Mobile and Internet) | Number of Service Providers (Fixed Line, Mobile and Internet) Quality: International Internet Bandwidth per Person | Secure Internet Servers per 1 Million People Access: Access to Regular Waste Collection (Urban) | Frequency of Household Waste Collection Sustainability: Recycling Services and Waste Sorting Quality: Environmental Standards of Landfills Efficiency: Cost Recovery ROADS Access: Total Road Network | Paved Roads | Unpaved Roads | Paved Roads as % of Total Road Network | Road Density | Population Density | Private Motor Vehicle Registrations Quality: Paved Roads Affordability: Vehicle Registration Tariffs AVIATION Access: Number of Operational Airports (Paved/Unpaved) | Scheduled Take-Off and Landing by Airport | Average Passenger Numbers | National (and other) Airline Carriers | Inbound Flights per Week | Inbound Seats per Week | Domestic Air Services in PICs Affordability: Air Travel Costs | International Air Freight Rates | Efficiency: Average Waiting Time for Services | Institutional Arrangements for Pacific Airports MARITIME Access: Frequency of International Shipping Services per Month | Shipping Traffic in Ports (Vessels per Year) | Number of Main Ports Affordability: Stevedoring Charges Efficiency/Productivity: Cargo Handling Equipment and Facilities in Major Ports | Vessel Turn-Around Times | Port Administration Access: Access to Improved Water Source (Urban and Rural)| Access to Improved Sanitation (Urban and Rural)| Incidence of Water Borne Diseases Quality: Availability of Water Supply in Piped Water Supply Systems Efficiency: Estimated Non-Revenue Water| Metered Connections| Employees per 1000 Connections| Cost Recovery Affordability: Average Tariff (Water and Sewerage Services)
Energy
Transport
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Annexes
Annex A Annex B Annex C Annex D Annex E Annex F Annex G Project details Infrastructure sector status and plans Project prioritisation Climate change adaptation and disaster risk management issues Analysis of life-cycle costing issues Funding issues and strategy Review of outcomes and impact of NIIP2010
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NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost Start Finish
A unique code number that is used to identify and track specific projects. A short descriptive title for the project. The Government agency or Public Enterprise that is most responsible for delivering the project. Estimated cost in T$ million. For most projects, this is an estimate for planning purposes and is not a firm cost based on detailed design/specification. The year that the project is expected to start. The year that the project is expected to be completed and operational. The stage that the project has reached, classified as: Operational: work on implementation is completed and the infrastructure is operational; Underway: work has already started on implementation; Committed: funding has already been identified for the investment and there is a high probability that it will proceed, but the timing may change; or Proposed: these are planned investments for which funding has not been confirmed and timing is not certain. Some are at an early stage of planning and development without fully defined components. The expected source of funding for the project, and if it involves development partners (DP), which partner and the status of the funding commitment ( confirmed or under discussion). For many projects, the need has been identified and preliminary planning undertaken, but the source of funding is unknown at this stage. A more detailed description of the project components and rationale.
Status
Funding Source
Description
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ENERGY SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description Underway Self (TPL) Underway Self (TPL) Committed Self (TPL) Committed Self (TPL) Committed Self (TPL) E1 Distribution Network Improvements (multi-year) TPL 18.0 Ongoing E2 Additional/Replacement Generators (Tongatapu) TPL 28.6 Ongoing E3 Additional/Replacement Generators (Vavau) TPL 2.0 Ongoing E4 Additional/Replacement Generators (Haapai) TPL 4.0 Ongoing E5 Additional/Replacement Generators (Eua) TPL 3.5 Ongoing
Ongoing program to refurbish the distribution network (poles, cables, etc) for improved efficiency and safety.
Ongoing program to replace/ upgrade existing generators and add additional capacity.
Ongoing program to replace/ upgrade existing generators and add additional capacity.
Ongoing program to replace/ upgrade existing generators and add additional capacity.
Ongoing program to replace/ upgrade existing generators and add additional capacity.
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
E6 Village Networks (electricity pole replacement) TPL 27.0 2010 2015 Underway DP Grant NZAID/EU/WB Confirmed Ongoing program to replace existing "stick" poles to improve the safety and reliability of the distribution system.
E7 Outer-island Off-Grid power (solar) TPL 12.0 2010 2014 Underway DP Grant JICA Confirmed Installation of solar photovoltaic cells in off-grid areas.
E8 Improved Street Lighting TPL / GoT 2.0 2010 2015 Underway Government
E9 Upgrade Bulk Fuel Logistics (Tank Farm, Bunkering) TERM/TPL 30.0 Unknown
E10 Solar generation (Tongatapu Meridien) TPL / TERM 14.0 2011 2012
Proposed Unknown
Operational Private/DG NZAID Confirmed Installation of 1,500 MWh of solar generation capacity. Financed by Meridian Energy with assistance from NZ Government. Ownership transfers to TPL in 2017.
Description
Expand the capacity of the existing tank farm and associated facilities to enable bulk buying of fuel on the international market.
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ENERGY SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status E11 Solar generation (Tongatapu Additional 1-2 MW) TPL / TERM 24.0 2013 2015 Proposed DP Grant Unconfirmed Under discussion Installation of 1-2 MW of solar generation and storage capacity. Possible financing by JICA. E12 Renewable energy pilots (biofuel, wind, tidal, etc) TERM/TPL 3.0 2013 2014 Proposed DP Grant Unconfirmed Under discussion Based on the outcomes of research and feasibility studies, construct pilot plants to test the viability of wind power, tidal power, producing bio-fuel from coconuts, etc. E17 Relocation of Tongatapu Power Station and Tank Farm TPL/TERM Unknown beyond 2017 E13 Energy Roadmap TGIF Projects TERM 2014/15 beyond 2017 Proposed Unknown E14 Solar Generation (Vavau, 500 KW) TPL/TERM 10.0 2013 2013 Underway DP Grant Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company E15 Biomass Generation (Eua) TPL 10.0 2013 2014 Proposed
Description
Program to implement the recommendations of the Tonga Energy Roadmap, based on the results of pilot plants and research.
Generation of electricity from Biomass (wood chips and forestry waste) on Eua.
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
E16 Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project TPL / TERM 4.0 2014 2016 Proposed DP Grant ADB Under preparation Construct grid-connected PV solar plants on outer islands ('Eua, Ha'apai, Vava'u).
E18 Undergrounding of Key Sections of Electricity Distribution on Tongatapu TPL Unknown beyond 2017
E19 Upgrade of Nukualofa Electricity Distribution Network TPL 26.0 2014 2019
Proposed
Proposed
Proposed
Unknown Move the power station and tank farm to a location outside of the tsunami and storm surge risk zone.
Description
Unknown Overhead power lines are amongst the most vulnerable infrastructure to cyclone, storm surge, earthquakes and tsunami. Involves undergrounding key sections of electricity supply on Tongatapu, such as electricity supply to the hospital.
Unknown Accelerate the process of renewing and upgrading of the reticulation network and customer service connections in the greater Nukualofa urban region.
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Ongoing program of upgrading of landline services and cabling, including fibre-optic cabling where appropriate. Upgrade the mobile phone network to enable mobile internet access and value-added services. Current 2.75G technology; next step to move to 3G or 4G. T7 Reticulation of High Speed Internet on Tongatapu TCC/TCL 8.0 2011 2014 Underway Self (TCC/TCL) Relocation of communications towers from existing location in Nuku'alofa. Underway Self (TCC) Underway Self (TCC) T1 Upgrade Fixed line services and cabling TCC 4.5 Ongoing T2 Mobile phone Next Generation Network (NGN) TCC 3.0 Ongoing T3 Relocation of TCC Transmission Towers (Nukualofa) TCC 1.0 2011 2011 Operational Self (TCC) T4 Outreach Expanding Services to small islands MIC 4.0 2009/10 2015 Underway DP Grant ITU/JICA/SPC Confirmed Infrastructure for improved telecoms to non-commercial remote communities of Niuas and Haapai (GSM, FM community radio station, etc). Managed by TCC. T5 Upgrading of TBC Radio Towers TBC 1.0 2011 2011 Operational DP Grant ICU/Korea Confirmed Replace main AM transmission tower on Tongatapu
Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
T6 International FibreOptic Cable TCL 53.0 2012 2013 Underway DP Grant/Commercial Equity ADB/WB Committed Undersea cable for high speed, high bandwidth internet and other voice and data communications. Link with global communications network.
T9 Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau etc TCL 30.0 2014 2016 Proposed DP Grant ADB/WB
T10 Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery TBC 6.0 2013 2014 Proposed Unknown
Under discussion Upgrading of TCC backbone distribution network on Tongatapu to fibre-optic. Aim for Fibre-to-Cabinet covering Tongatapu.
Description
Enhanced information sharing, Government portal website and website presence for all agencies and Government services.
Under Discussion Extend the proposed international undersea fibre-optic communications cable to Haapai and Vavau. Planning has commenced and initial discussions have taken place with ADB/WB. This project is linked to the proposed extension of the fibre-optic cable between Tonga and Samoa.
Install new AM radio mast on Vavau, to (a) improve signal on the Niuas and north-facing areas of the Vavau group; and (b) provide a backup to Tongatapu mast in case of disaster/ failure. Relocate TBC studios at Tongatapu to climate proof TBC operations. Upgrade/relocate studios at Vavau to improve services and provide a backup in case of disaster/failure at Tongatapu.
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WATER SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status W1 Upgrade village water supplies TWB 5.0 2010 2012 Completed DP Grant AusAID Confirmed W2 Upgrade Nukualofa water system (wells, storage, distribution) TWB 8.0 2012 2015 Committed DP Grant ADB/AusAID Confirmed (NUSDP) Program of Nuku'alofa water supply improvements to reduce losses and lower costs. Includes upgrade of well field (pipes, pumps, etc), reservoirs, access roads, etc. Rehabilitation and expansion of outer islands water systems (wells, filtration, storage, distribution); and improved water supply for schools. Possible funding for some components under the JICA Outer Islands Water Supply Improvement Project. Extension of piped water supply to growth areas of Nuku'alofa. New well field to cater for projected increase in demand for water. W3 Outer Islands water supply improvements (Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua, Niuafoou) TWB 15.0 2014 2016 Proposed Unknown W4 Expand Nuku'alofa system to growth areas TWB 11.4 2016 2018 Proposed Unknown Proposed Unknown W5 Development of a new Tongatapu well-field TWB 10.0 beyond 2017
Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description
W6 Water Softening for Nukualofa System TWB 8.0 2013 2015 Proposed Unknown
W7 New Well Field for Neiafu, Vavau TWB 12.0 Beyond 2017
Proposed Unknown
Facilities to treat water to reduce the mineral content and hardness of the Nukualofa water supply.
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Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description
S6 New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Environment 4.0 Urgent/ 2013 2015 Proposed Unknown
Implementation of improved solid waste disposal arrangements for Haapai. First step is a feasibility of study of options; either landfill on Haapai or transfer station and disposal on Tongatapu. Then implement the preferred option.
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ROADS SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description R1 National Roads Improvement Project MOI 83.0 2010 2012 Operational DP Loan China Confirmed Upgrading and sealing of existing roads on Tongatapu, Vavua, Haapai, Eua R2 Integrated Urban Development Sector Program (Roads) MOI 12.0 2011 2013 Underway DP Loan ADB Confirmed Upgrading of main access roads into Nuku'alofa and associated drainage. R3 Transport Sector Consolidation Project (Roads) MOI 11.6 2010 2013 Underway DP Grant WB Confirmed Develop domestic private sector capacity for initial rehabilitation and thereafter routine and periodic maintenance of roads R4 Vaipua Bridge (Vavau) MOI 7.8 2011 2012 Underway DP Grant China Confirmed Rehabilitation/replacement of Vaipua Bridge R5 Foa Causeway (Haapai) MOI 3.2 2012 2013 Committed DP Grant Germany Confirmed Rehabilitation of causeway linking Foa island.
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
R10 Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program MOI 10.0 2016 2018 Proposed Unknown
Proposed Unknown
Proposed Unknown
Proposed Unknown
Description
Program of upgrade of roads serving plantations and markets. IMPLEMENTATION HAS NOT PROCEEDED.
New road link to southern side of Fangauta Lagoon. Options include a new causeway along the western edge of the lagoon, or a bridge across the Lagoon, south from Nuku'alofa
Rehabilitation and resealing of around 60km of roads on Vavau, Haapai, Eua and Niuaofou.
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ROADS SECTOR
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description Unknown Rehabilitation of around 95kms of trunk and agricultural roads on Tongatapu R11 Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program MOI 16.0 2014 2017 Proposed
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Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
P6 Replace Fender at QSW International Wharf PAT 1.0 2012 2014 Committed Self (PAT)
P7 Vuna Wharf Development (Stage 1 Cruise ship wharf) PAT, NDC 33.0 2010 2012 Operational DP Loan China Confirmed Complete the construction of a cruise ship terminal at Vuna Wharf and upgrade the access causeway with improved roads, market area, etc
P8 New Pilot Boat for QSW PAT 1.5 2012/13 2013 Committed Self (PAT)
P9 Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience MOI, PAT 20.0 2013 2016 Proposed Unknown
P10 Vuna Wharf Development (Stage 2 Marina) PAT, NDC 23.4 2014 2015 Proposed Unknown
Description
Replace fenders to improve ship safety and wharf protection, for cargo and cruise ships.
New pilot boat to increase safety of ship navigation and compliance with IMO requirements.
Improve safety and resilience to climate change and disasters in the maritime sector, with a focus on outer island ports. Including navigational aids, port upgrades, dredging, etc.
Complete the yacht marina at Vuna Wharf and associated works. PAT has committed $3.4 m to the project.
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NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description
P16 Upgrade port of Nafanua (Eua) MOI 3.0 2014 2015 Proposed DP Grant JICA Under Discussion Upgrade port infrastructure to allow operation of the new inter-island ferry to Eua
Proposed
Unknown Multi-purpose barge for disaster recovery, installation and maintenance of navigational aids; marine oil spills; and general maintenance works.
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Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status
A6 Upgraded Arrivals area (Fuaamotu) TAL 1.5 2013 2013 Committed DP Grant World Bank/PAIP Confirmed Reconfigure the terminal arrivals area to provide better utilisation of available space; improved baggage collection; an area to manage health warnings (e.g. swine flu); new toilets; and an increased number of immigration processing desks.
A7 Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) TAL 2.0 2014 2014 Proposed Unknown
A8 Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway TAL 38.0 2014 2014 Committed DP Grant World Bank/PAIP Confirmed Resurface the runway to ensure safe ongoing operations and compliance with ICAO requirements; enable continued operation of aircraft at full loads; and enable future services by heavier aircraft.
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A9 Expand apron and new taxiways Fuaamotu TAL 25.0 2015 2015 Proposed Unknown
A10 Resurfacing of Vavau runway, apron, taxiway TAL 11.0 2014 2014 Committed DP Grant World Bank/PAIP Confirmed
Description
Additional Fire Tender to improve safety and fire response at Vava'u Provide Category 5 fire fighting capability, and to provide extra capability and flexibility in TALs overall fire fighting capability.
Expand the runway apron and construct additional taxiways to cater for larger aircraft; reduce congestion; provide more flexibility in aircraft operations; and provide additional parking space for aircraft.
Resurface the runway to ensure safe ongoing operations and compliance with ICAO requirements.
Description
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MULTI-SECTOR PROJECTS
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status M1 Nukualofa Development (Multi-sector) Nuku'alofa Development Corporation 20.0 2010 2010 Underway DP Loan China Confirmed Upgrade of basic infrastructure in the CBD area, including roads, underground power and additional High Voltage supply, drainage, grey water collection system, footpaths, street lighting, etc. Engineering, design and construction of seawalls from Nukuleka to Manuka to provide protection from climate change and tsunami. Includes engineering, design and construction of seawalls from Halafu to Puke and protection of groundwater resources. Construction of cyclone and flood proof meteorological office, central disaster response control centre, related communications links, and district level emergency response offices on Eua, Ha'apai, Vava'u, and Niuas. Upgrading of evacuation tracks (i.e. Popua access road), construction of multi-purpose shelters and signage. M2 Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu MLECCNR 15.0 2013 2015 Proposed Unknown M3 Western Tongatapu Infrastructure Resilience MLECCNR 20.0 2015 2017 Proposed Unknown M4 Disaster Response & Evacuation Infrastructure NEMO, MLECCNR 12.0 2014 2016 Proposed Unknown
Description
NIIP Reference Project Name Responsible Agency Project Cost (T$ million) Start Finish Status Funding Source if DP, who if DP, status Description
M5 Haapai Infrastructure Resilience MLECCNR, TWB 12.0 2013 2015 Proposed Unknown
Proposed Unknown
Proposed Unknown
Includes strengthening of foreshore protection and groundwater infrastructure resilience; and relocation of key community facilities away from the most vulnerable coastal zone.
Provision of services/utilities supporting the Government Ministerial Complex project. Total project is around $30m including construction and services.
New and upgraded fixed infrastructure (roads, services, etc) to support holding the Pacific Games in Tonga in 2019. Does not include sporting venues and associated buildings.
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A short descriptive title for the project. The Government agency or Public Enterprise that is most responsible for delivering the project. A brief description of the project background and objectives, highlighting the problem that the proposed project addresses; project components; implications for social and economic development; and climate change adaptation and disaster risk management aspects. The key benefits that the project is expected to deliver. A brief description of the Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and/or Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) function of the project (where relevant); and of the resilience of the project to climate change and natural disasters, including resilience building measures integrated in project design. The linkage to national outcome objectives of the TSDF; corporate plans; and international standards. Whether the project is:
CCA/DRM Issues
Project Type
new infrastructure (provides additional capacity or access to services that did not exist before); an upgrade or replacement of existing infrastructure (newer technology/design, or adds new service features); or refurbishes existing infrastructure (repair or replacement on a largely like-for-like basis).
Project Stage Capital Cost Estimate Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost Planned Timing of Implementation Potential Source of Financing
Where the project is in the project development pipeline (concept stage; planning and design stage; or ready to start). Estimated cost in TOP/T$ million and USD. For most projects, this is an estimate for planning purposes and is not a firm cost based on detailed design/specification. An estimate derived from feasibility/planning studies (where available), or based on the type of infrastructure and typical maintenance costs as discussed in Annex E. The year that the project is planned to start and the implementation period. For both the capital cost and operations and maintenance (O&M) components of life cycle costs.
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Finalize financing package
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$24.0 million (USD13.8 million) (Source: TERM) T$0.72 million per year 2013 2015 Capital: Grant from bilateral development partners O&M: Tonga Power
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Finalize project design and financing package. Project preparation studies are expected to take place in 2013, with support from ADB.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$9.0 million (USD5.2 million) (Source: ADB estimate) T$0.23 million per year 2014 2016 Capital: Grant from bilateral development partners O&M: Tonga Power
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Finalize design and financing package. Survey of the planned route to Haapai and Vavau has already been completed by TCL.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: T$30 million (USD17.3 million) (Source: TCL) T$0.15 million (operations and maintenance) 2014 2016 Capital: Combination of grants from development partners; and local investment The investment costs may partly be covered by the proposed extension of the international fibre optic cable from Tonga to Samoa. O&M: Self-funded by Tonga Cable Ltd from commercial operation of the cable
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Climate Change Adaptation/ Disaster Risk Management Issues Project Type: Project Stage:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Planning and design of project components
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$6.0 million (USD3.5 million) (Source: TBC estimate) T$0.12 million (operations and maintenance) 2013 2014 Capital: Grant from development partner or global/regional fund O&M: Self-funded by TBC
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Finalize work program and financing package
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$15.0 million (USD8.7 million) (Source: TWB) T$0.38 million per year 2014 2016 Capital: Combination of grant from development partners, and inputs by TWB O&M: Self-funded by TWB
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Project Benefits:
Climate Change Adaptation/ Disaster Risk Management Issues Project Type: Project Stage:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Finalize planning, design and work program
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$11.0 million (USD6.3 million) (Source: TWB and the ADB-funded Urban Planning and Management System project) T$0.29 million per year 2016 2018 Capital: Combination of grant from development partners, and inputs by TWB O&M: Self-funded by TWB
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Feasibility study that identifies the best approach to introducing improved solid waste management on Haapai.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$4.0 million (USD2.3 million) (Source: MLECCNR estimate) T$0.12 million per year As soon as possible Capital: Grant from development partners O&M: Budget allocation
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Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Feasibility study that identifies/designs the program of road upgrades.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$10 million (USD5.8 million) (Source: MOI estimate) T$0.20 per year 2016 2018 Capital: Grant from development partners O&M: Government of Tonga, via the Road Fund.
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Feasibility study that identifies/designs the program of port/safety upgrades.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$20 million (USD11.5 million) (Source: MOI preliminary estimate) T$0.40 per year 2013 2016 Capital: Grant from development partners O&M: Government of Tonga
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Development of a financing package.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$9 million (USD5.2 million) (Source: TAL) T$0.09 million per year (covering all routine maintenance of runway) As soon as possible Capital: Combination of grants from development partners, and inputs by TAL O&M: Self-funded by TAL
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Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Detailed planning and design of the control tower.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$7 million (USD4.1 million) (Source: TAL) T$0.18 million per year 2015 2016 Capital: Combination of grants from development partners, and inputs by TAL O&M: Self-funded by TAL
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Description/Purpose:
Project Benefits:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Development of a financing package, followed by detailed planning and scheduling of works.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$15 million (USD 8.7 million) (Source: JNAP Secretariat) T$0.30 million per year (covering routine maintenance of seawalls) 2013 2015 Capital: Grant from development partners and global/regional funds O&M: Government of Tonga
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Description/Purpose:
Concept Planning & Design Ready to Start Next major milestone in project preparation: Development of a financing package, followed by detailed planning and scheduling of works.
PROJECT FINANCING
Capital Cost Estimate: Est. Annual Maintenance Cost: Planned Timing of Implementation: Potential Source of Financing: T$12 million (USD6.9 million) (Source: from MOI, JNAP Secretariat estimates) T$0.24 million per year (covering routine maintenance) 2014 2016 Capital: Grant from development partners and global/regional funds O&M: Government of Tonga
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Table B.1: Tonga at a glance Indicator Demographic Population (2011) Average growth rate (5 years to 2011) Distribution of population No. of Households (2011) Average Household Size Economic GDP (2010-11) GDP per capita (2010-11) Growth in GDP (real terms) Government Budget Surplus/Deficit (%GDP) Growth in Consumer Prices Exchange Rate: Sector Contributions Key Components of GDP 2010-11 103,040 persons 0.2% See Figure B.1 18,160 5.7 persons T$ 782 million (USD 453 million) T$ 7,600 (USD 4,400) 0.8% (2011/12r); 2.9% (10/11r); 3.3% (09/10); 3.2% (08/09) 0.1% (2012/13e); -3.0% (11/12e); -7.3% (10/11p); -5.3% (09/10) 6.1% (2010/11); 1.7% (2009/10); 5.5% (2008/09) 0.545 (USD/T$: 2010/11 average) Agriculture, forests and fisheries Commerce, restaurants and hotels Government Services Construction Live Animals, Animal Products Vegetable Products 17% 13% 12% 11% 50% 41%
Sources: Tonga Census 2011; Tonga National Accounts Statistics (Tonga Statistics Department, June 2012 and February 2013); Government of Tonga Budget Statement for year ending 30th June 2013
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Table B.2: Overview of the economic infrastructure sector Sector Notes 15.5 MW total installed capacity (Tongatapu, Vavau, Haapai, Eua) 1,300 km of distribution network (total of overhead, underground, submarine and low voltage cables) 16,500 domestic, 4,000 commercial customers 60% capacity factor (ratio of average power demand to installed capacity) 85% of population on-grid 14% line losses Telephone access available throughout the country (fixed line or mobile) 15,000 landline subscribers (estimated 70% of households) 53,000 mobile customers (TCC, Digicel) 3,000 internet connections (1,200 TCC & 1597 TCC GSM Mobile Internet) 100% of population have access to safe drinking water (reticulated supply, rainwater tanks, wells, etc) 85% of households have piped water 4 x reticulated water supply schemes (Nukualofa, Nieafu, Pangai-Hihifo, Eua) 15-39% Total losses (Nukualofa 39%) No central sewage collection and treatment system (septic tanks) 1 x sanitary landfill (Tapuhia, Tongatapu) Household collection of solid waste on Tongatapu only No regular system for collection of recyclables 1 x International/Domestic airport (Fuaamotu 2,671m asphalt runway) 2 x Domestic airport bitumen runway (Haapai, Vavau) 1 x Domestic airport chip seal runway (Eua) 2 x Domestic airport grass runway (Niuafoou, Niuatoputapu) 80,000 international and 50,000 domestic departures per year 14 international flights per week (4 international destinations) 880 km (including community roads) 40% sealed 15,500 vehicles 2 x International/Domestic ports (Nukualofa 3 international, 2 inter-island berths; Vavau 1 international, 1 inter-island berth) 5 x domestic ports (Eua, Haafeva, Pangai, Niuafoou, Niuatoputapu) 8,500 international container movements per year (full TEU) (90% imports) 149 international ship calls at Nukualofa (General Cargo, Cruise, Tanker, Other)
Energy
Telecommunications
Airports
Roads
Sea Ports
Sources: Infrastructure managers (TPB, TWB, TCC, PAT, TAL, Ministries); Tonga Census; various feasibility and benchmarking studies; Pacific Power Association; Pacific Water and Waste Association
several agencies responsible for monitoring and standards (Environment & Climate Change; Health; Works), but liquid waste and run-off appear to be gaps in terms of responsibility for infrastructure. There are multiple agencies regulating different aspects of some sectors, for instance in the water sector, the MLECCNR has a role in protecting water supply catchments and groundwater; the Ministry of Health in testing water quality/contamination; and the MAFF in some areas of resource management. This situation is not unusual, but does create potential for inefficient overlaps and delays. In the ports sector, responsibility for infrastructure/service delivery is split between a Ministry and Public Enterprise. In addition, the MOI is both operator and regulator which is contrary to general principles of good governance.
This lack of institutional clarity in the sector and the associated overlaps and gaps can lead to ineffective coordination of planning and management, inefficient delivery of infrastructure and services, and wasteful duplication; especially where projects intersect or overlap, and for linked investments. There is a potential for wasted investment when related projects are planned and delivered in isolation from each other.
Table B.3: Institutional structure of the economic infrastructure sector Sector Power Telecoms Scope of Services National Off-grid Outer Islands National National Water Urban Areas Villages / Outer Islands National Sanitation Urban Areas Villages National Solid Waste Nuku'alofa Rural Tongatapu Other Islands Drainage Roads Ports Airports National National Nuku'alofa Outer Islands National Waste Authority Ltd/ Private sector Waste Authority Ltd Community MOI MOI Ports Authority Tonga MOI Tonga Airports Ltd MLECCNR MOI MOI MOI MOI MOI MLECCNR MOI MOI MOI MOI MOI MLECCNR MOH MLECCNR MOH Tonga Water Board (TWB) Village Committees Tonga Water Private Sector/ Community Infrastructure/ Service Delivery Tonga Power Ltd MLECCNR/ Community TCC/ Digicel PMO/MIC MLECCNR MOH MAFF TWB MPE MOH MLECCNR MLECCNR MOH PMO/MIC MLECCNR MOH TWB MPE MOH MLECCNR MOH Regulation/ Monitoring Electricity Commission Planning/ Policy TERM MLECCNR
Legend: MLECCNR (Ministry of Lands, Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources); MOH (Ministry of Health); MOI (Ministry of Infrastructure); MOI (Ministry of Infrastructure); TCC (Tonga Communications Corporation); MIC (Ministry of Information & Communication); MPE (Ministry of Public Enterprises); WAL (Waste Authority Ltd)
improve the coverage, quality, safety, reliability, and resilience of economic infrastructure. As well as ensuring access to basic services, there are growing community expectations regarding the quality of the services provided.
In this respect, Tonga has essentially the same drivers for infrastructure development as all other countries, but there are some differences that need to be taken into account. The following diagram (Figure B.2) identifies the key drivers for demand for infrastructure investment. It shows that in addition to economic growth and national goals, the factors that are expected to strongly influence infrastructure demand in Tonga include quality and cost of services; access to new technologies; safety and security compliance; urban drift as more people move to urban areas, especially Nukualofa; quality of life; and sustainability.
All of these factors will apply pressure for infrastructure development, but they are not equally strong. Table B.4 provides an overview of indicators of the strength of key demand drivers. The Table shows that: Over the last 10 years, average rates of population and economic growth have been low with an average population growth of only 0.2-0.4 per cent, and mixed annual growth in real GDP, ranging from -4.1 per cent 1 in 2006/07 to a preliminary figure of 4.7 per cent in 2010/11. The combined effect is that overall growth in underlying demand for infrastructure over the last decade has averaged less than two per cent per year and is expected to drop to below one per cent over the next three years on the basis of Budget forecasts of GDP growth. Urban drift is a much stronger factor, with population growth in some fringe areas of Nukualofa averaging 2.5 per cent growth per year over the last five years. Access to basic services is generally not a strong driver for infrastructure investment because of high existing levels of access (Table B.2). Social and business connectivity through transport and telecommunications is increasingly important to economic development and quality of life. Compliance with relevant international and national standards (health and environmental, safety and security) can be a critical factor driving investment in infrastructure, especially for the international aviation and maritime sub-sectors where lack of compliance with relevant international standards can threaten connectivity between Tonga and international markets. Climate change and disaster risk management are powerful long-term factors for infrastructure investment to mitigate risks and improve resilience.
Assuming an elasticity of demand for infrastructure with respect to real GDP of 1-1.2.
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The situation is further complicated by differences in the characteristics of infrastructure sub-sectors and the relative strength of the demand drivers. Table B.5 provides an indication of the relative strength of the key demand drivers for each sub-sector. For instance, it shows that: access to basic services is not a key factor, except in the solid waste sector where infrastructure and services are limited outside Tongatapu; urban drift is a strong factor driving the need for investment in water, solid waste, and roads sectors; safety and maintaining compliance with international regulations is extremely important for the aviation and maritime sectors; reducing the cost and improving the quality of services is a strong driving force in the energy and telecommunications sectors; and enhancing resilience in terms of CCA/DRM is important for all sectors, especially in terms of protecting water supplies, ensuring resilience of ports and shipping services, and generally protecting community infrastructure.
Table B.4: Drivers of demand for infrastructure and key indicators Driver National Goals for Infrastructure (TSDF) Population Growth Urban Drift Indicators Improve the everyday lives of people reduce the cost of doing business Renewable energy target of 50% National: 0.2% average annual growth Tongatapu : 0.8% average annual growth Nukualofa urban fringe: up to 2.5% average annual growth Other islands: negative growth Real GDP: Around 1-3% average annual growth over the last 5-6 years Forecast average growth of around 0.5% to 2014 (MFNP) Average household income per capita: No real growth since 2001 (TSDF) Remittances: downward trend since 2005 High to very high level of access to basic services across all modes, see Annex B. Varies by sector from low to high. Varies by sector from medium to high. Compliance with international regulations: Aviation (ICAO), Maritime (IMO) Compliance with national legislative standards More than 60% of Tonga population receive at least one mobile phone call on any day. More than 53,000 mobile customers Internet: Around 1 in 10 homes have an internet connection, but expected to rise to more than 1 in 4 after completion of the undersea fibre-optic cable link High level of reliance on international/domestic aviation and maritime links Latest forecasts indicate: - increase in average air temperature and sea surface temperature of 0.3-1.1C by 2030 - increase in the number of extreme hot days and warm nights and a decline in cooler weather. - decrease in dry season rainfall and an increase in wet season rainfall - extreme rainfall days are likely to occur more often - increase in cyclone intensity - sea level of 3-17 cm by 2030 Tonga averages T$30m per year in losses from cyclones and earthquakes (PCRAFI) Tonga has a 50% chance of experiencing a loss exceeding T$300m in the next 50 years
Economic activity Household expenditure Access to Basic Services Cost of Services Quality of Services Compliance with relevant standards (Health and Environmental; Safety and Security)
Social/Business Connectivity
Climate Change
Disaster Risk
Sources: TSDF, Tonga Census, Tonga Budget, Tonga 2nd MDG Report, Infrastructure managers (TPB, TWB, TCC, PAT, TAL).
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Table B.5: Current significance of demand drivers in Tonga by sector Telecoms Maritime Aviation Energy Solid Waste Water Roads Multi 4 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 4 4
Driver
National Goals for Infrastructure Population Growth Urban Drift Economic activity Household expenditure Access to Basic Services Cost of Services to consumers Quality of Services Compliance with relevant standards Social/Business Connectivity Climate Change Disaster Risk
4 1 0 2 1 1 4 2 1 0 4 2
4 1 0 2 4 1 4 4 1 4 2 2
4 1 4 2 2 1 2 4 2 0 4 4
4 1 4 2 4 4 2 4 2 0 1 0
4 1 4 2 1 1 2 2 2 4 2 2
4 1 0 1 1 1 0 2 4 4 4 4
4 1 0 2 1 1 0 2 4 4 2 2
Sector Plans
Ministries
Informs
ANNUAL BUDGET
Informs
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Government Ministries
Ministry
Corporate Plan
Budget
MTBF
TSDF
NIIP
Public Enterprises
Public Enterprise
Corporate Plan
PE Budget
The overall direction and priorities of national infrastructure planning and the NIIP are shaped by the TSDF. The TSDF is the Kingdom's principal document for setting economic and social development objectives. It sets the following development vision for the Kingdom:
To develop and promote a just, equitable and progressive society in which the people of Tonga enjoy good health , peace, harmony and prosperity, in meeting their aspirations in life.
Infrastructure and the NIIP play a major part in meeting the TSDF goals. In particular, TSDF Outcome Objective 3 specifies the need for:
Appropriate, well planned and maintained infrastructure that improves the everyday lives of the people and lowers the cost of business by the adequate funding and implementation of the National Infrastructure Investment Plan (NIIP).
As well as being influenced by the TSDF, the NIIP is also shaped by sector development strategies/roadmaps. Together the TSDF, NIIP, and sector plans then influence Ministries and Public Enterprises in their corporate and investment planning. The Corporate Plans and the Annual Management Plans of Ministries set out a three-year strategic plan for the Ministry, and a one-year management plan for allocation of resources. This aligns closely with the annual budgeting process of Government and the planned MTBF which incorporates forward projections of aggregate expenditure and revenue. Since NIIP2010, work has progressed on enhancing the corporate planning leading to the full implementation of MTBF, which is expected to be operational for the 2013/14 Budget. A similar process occurs in Public Enterprises where Statements of Corporate Intent play an equivalent role in forward planning and budgeting by outlining the development plans and forecast financial performance of the Public Enterprise over the next 12 months. The NIIP also provides important information on planned future investments that can be used by the private sector in its planning and decision-making. Finally, each update of the NIIP is informed by national and corporate investment plans and budgets (Figure B.3) plus the priorities of the private sector, and the planning loop is completed.
This situation is also reflected in the short-medium investment planning in the infrastructure sector. Most sectors/agencies have well-defined investment plans for the next three years; for three to five years the picture is less certain; and beyond five years, only the major Public Enterprises have well-developed investment plans.
Table B.6: Status of sector strategic and master planning Sector Energy Telecommunications Water and sanitation Solid Waste Transport Airports Roads Sea Ports QSW Nukualofa Other Islands Multi-Sector Climate Change Draft (Draft) Joint Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management 2010-2015, July 2010 Master Plan/ Roadmap Yes Partial Out-dated Draft No Yes Yes Partial Partial Partial Notes Tonga Energy Road Map 2010-2020, June 2010; Tonga Power 10 year investment plan Elements (TCC corporate plan, Undersea Cable proposal, National IT Policy 2009) but no sector roadmap Latest Masterplan for Water Supply 1991. Expected to be updated as part of the NUSDP. (Draft) National Integrated Waste Management Strategy for Tonga, July 2010, but no roadmap for how to implement the strategy Elements (sub-sector plans as listed below) but no overall sector roadmap Aviation sector strategy and airports master plans completed in 2011 under TSCP Roads sector strategy and maintenance plan completed in 2012 under TSCP. Elements of a Ports sector strategy plan prepared under TSCP Outdated QSW Master Plan is under review, but not a formal master planning process Maritime Needs Safety Assessment completed in 2012 under TSCP, but not a longterm development roadmap
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Figure B.5: Overview of the project proposal and funds flow process
Projects proposed for Budget funding follow a relatively simple process. Ministries submit proposals to the pool of candidate projects being considered for Budget funding. Projects approved for funding become part of the draft Budget which is then considered by the Cabinet Economic Development Committee (CEDC), taking into account consistency with national development priorities and ultimately approved by Cabinet and Parliament. Disbursements for approved projects are made through the MFNP and the relevant Ministry delivers the project. For Public Enterprises, proposed infrastructure investments are referred to the Board of the Public Enterprise and may be self-funded using internal resources or borrowings from a commercial bank. Projects suitable for development partner funding are referred to the Ministry of Finance & National Planning (MFNP) Aid Management Division and processed as described below. For projects supported by development partner funds, the process is more complex. Proposals for infrastructure projects can arise from a range of sources, notably Ministries, Regional Development Committees, communities, and Public Enterprises. The project proposals are then submitted to Aid Management Division of the MFNP which coordinates all aid programs, except for a few specific development partners. Since NIIP2010, considerable work has been done by the MFNP on streamlining and systematising the process. The process is shown in detail in Figure B.6.
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Figure B.6: The project management cycle for projects funded by development partners
Briefly, the process proceeds as follows. Agencies proposing projects for support must prepare a Project Information Document (PID). The PID includes details of project scope, objectives, and policy context; monitoring & evaluation framework; environmental and social impacts; risks; and capital and recurrent costs. The PID represents a significant advance since NIIP2010 in terms of proposal format and coverage of issues, but the current PID is lacking with regards to coverage of CCA/DRM issues. A quick scan of recent submissions suggests that agencies are focusing on project descriptions and give insufficient attention to the provision of reliable estimates of capital and recurrent operation/maintenance costs. These issues are taken up in more detail in Annexes D and E. The PIDs are evaluated by the Aid Management Division and then submitted to the Project and Aid Coordination Committee (PACC) for its consideration. The PACC is chaired by the Minister of Finance and National Planning and members are CEOs from central agencies. If projects are approved, then those with costs under T$2 million are submitted to development partners for consideration. For projects with costs more than T$2 million, the proposal is
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referred to the CEDC for approval before submission to development partners for funding. The MFNP Aid Management Division conducts constant dialogue with the development partners for possible financing of projects. For projects that are referred to development partners and approved, the development partner funds are deposited directly to the Government accounts. Funds for Public Enterprises are transferred to them. Disbursements are made through the MFNP.
This section completes the snapshot of the economic infrastructure sector. It provides a brief overview of current issues, performance, and investment plans for each sub-sector. References to specific investment projects follow the numbering system specified in Annex A.
ENERGY
Tonga has one of the highest levels of access to electricity in the region with around 85 per cent of the population ongrid and high levels of supply reliability. At the same time, Tonga has historically had one of the highest costs of 2 electricity in the region. In part, this was a result of Tongas almost 100 per cent reliance on diesel-powered generation for on-grid services. System losses were also high at around 17 per cent, but are coming down and are expected to reduce to around 13 per cent by 2015. This is more consistent with international benchmarks. The energy sector is in a phase of rebuilding and transformation. Tonga Power is investing heavily from its own resources to rehabilitate the electricity generation and supply system to increase efficiency and safety (E1-5); and is working with development partners (AusAID, the EU, New Zealand Aid, and the WB) to upgrade village power supply systems (E6). At the same time, initiatives are underway to transform electricity production with a move towards greater stability and self-sufficiency. In 2009, the Government responded to the twin challenges of reducing the Tongan contribution to global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and improving national energy security by approving a policy target to supply 50 per cent of electricity generation through renewable resources. The Governments response to this target is set out in the Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM) 2010-2020. A number of projects are already underway that contribute to meeting the TERM objectives. These include installation of an 1.3MW solar generation facility on Tongatapu (with assistance from the NZ Government)(E10); an on-grid solar generation facility on Vavau (with assistance from Abu Dhabi)(E14); investment in off -grid solar power systems for households in outer-islands (with support from the Japanese Government)(E7); research into other sources of renewable energy (such as wind power, tidal power, producing bio-fuel from coconuts, etc); and investigation of options for stabilising and potentially reducing the cost of petroleum fuels by measures such as hedging and/or improving the fuel supply chain. In the short-medium term, the investment emphasis in the energy sector (Table B.7) continues to be on improving the efficiency of electricity generation and distribution, reducing reliance on imported petroleum, and a move towards greater energy self-sufficiency by increasing the use of renewable energy sources and other measures. This includes proposed projects to increase the solar generation capacity on Tongatapu (E11) and outer islands (E16); pilot projects for other renewable energy sources (coconut oil/land fill gas (E12)); biomass generation from woodchips and forestry waste on 'Eua (E15); and the facilitation of investment by households and the private sector in energy efficiency through a possible Tonga Green Energy Incentive Fund (E13). Depending on the outcomes of investigation of options for stabilising and potentially reducing the cost of petroleum fuels, there may be a need to upgrade bulk fuel storage facilities on Tongatapu (E9), and in the longer term, relocate the fuel storage facilities outside of the tsunami and storm surge risk zone (E17). Initiatives to increase the efficiency and safety of electricity distribution (E19) are also a
2 3
Pacific Power Association, Performance Benchmarking for Pacific Power Utilities- Benchmarking Report 2011 (2012). World Bank, IDA/IFC Country Assistance Strategy to the Kingdom of Tonga FY2011-2014 (2010); Tonga Energy Road Map 2010-2020.
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priority. In the longer term, the option of relocating power lines underground to critical infrastructure, such as the hospital, should also be considered to reduce vulnerability to damage due to natural disasters (E18).
Table B.7: Energy sector major projects underway, committed or proposed Ref E1 E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7 E8 E14 E11 E12 E15 E9 E16 E19 E13 E17 E18 Project Distribution Network Improvements (multi-year) Additional/Replacement Generators (Tongatapu) Additional/Replacement Generators (Vavau) Additional/Replacement Generators (Haapai) Additional/Replacement Generators (Eua) Village Networks (electricity pole replacement) Outer-island Off-Grid power (solar) Improved Street Lighting Solar Generation (Vava'u) Solar generation (Tongatapu - Additional 1-2MW) Renewable energy pilots (Coconut Oil/land fill gas) Biomass Generation ('Eua) Upgrade Bulk Fuel Logistics (Tank Farm, Bunkering) Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project Upgrade of Nukualofa Electricity Network Energy Roadmap TGIF Projects Relocate Tongatapu Power Station and Tank Farm Relocate Critical Power Lines Underground TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 5.2 23.0 1.1 3.1 2.6 13.5 4.5 0.8 6.7 24.0 3.0 10.0 30.0 9.0 25.7 tbd tbd tbd T$162.2 Status U U U U U U U U C P P P P P P P P P Funding Source PE PE PE PE PE DG DG G DG U U U U U U U U U FY14-18 FY19 to 23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Tonga is well positioned in terms of access to basic telecommunications services. Mobile phone and internet services are available throughout the country, including in smaller and more remote communities. The completion of an undersea fibre-optic link to Fiji, scheduled for 2013 (T6), will deliver a step-change in speed, capacity, and quality that will redefine telecommunications in Tonga; offset some of the geographical disadvantage experienced by the country; and create new economic and social opportunities. In addition, local investments by the Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC) and Digicel are underway to reticulate high-speed broadband on Tongatapu (T7); progressively improve telecommunications infrastructure and services (telephone, radio, internet) to accommodate emerging applications (such as mobile internet, multi-media, and interactive applications) (T1,2); and improve coverage in lesspopulated islands (T4). Competition and private sector involvement in the telecommunications sector has been a strong force driving these developments. Telecommunications also has a vital role to play during natural disasters and other emergency situations. In particular, AM Radio continues to play an important role in sending messages to outer island communities including information about scheduled arrivals of shipping and airline services. As a lifeline during times of natural disasters, it has a critical role in broadcasting regular weather reports and cyclone and tsunami warnings. The installation of a new AM transmission tower on Tongatapu has addressed some deficiencies in the AM coverage (T5), but problems remain with reception in northern island groups, as well the CCA/DRM resilience of AM transmission and other telecommunications media, such as the mobile phone system. In the short term, proposed projects in the telecommunications sector (Table B.8) focus on extending the undersea fibre-optic cable link to Haapai and Vavau (T9). This project is linked to a proposed extension of the international fibre-optic cable from Tongatapu to Samoa; development of Government services that take advantage of enhanced
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internet capability (E-Government T8); and strengthening the early warning capability and CCA/DRM resilience of the AM transmission infrastructure (T10).
Table B.8: Telecommunications major projects underway, committed or proposed Ref T1 T2 T4 T6 T7 T10 T8 T9 Project Upgrade TCC Fixed line services and cabling TCC Mobile phone Next Generation Network (NGN) Outreach Expanding Services to small islands International Fibre-Optic Cable Local Reticulation of High Speed Internet Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery E-Government Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau (and Samoa) TOTAL (excluding TCC) Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 1.6 53.0 8.0 6.0 20.0 30.0 T $ 100.6 Status U U U U U P P P Funding Source PE PE DG DG PE U U U FY14-18 FY1923
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
Non-revenue water is an important measure of efficiency. It refers to the difference between system input volume and the billed or authorised consumption, and includes un-billed consumption from faulty meters, illegal connections or under-billing as well as physical losses from leakages and overflows. Pacific Water and Waste Association, Development of a Water Utility Benchmarking System Benchmarking Report 2011 (2011); Asian Development Bank, Asian Water Supplies: Reaching the Urban Poor (2003). 6 The water sector currently does not have an up-to-date medium-long term development roadmap, but it is expected that a long-term roadmap, at least for Nukualofa will be developed as part of the NUDSP.
5
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Table B.9: Water and sanitation major projects underway, committed or proposed Ref W2 W6 W3 W4 W5 W7 Project Rehabilitate the Nukualofa water system Water Softening for Nukualofa System Outer Islands water supply improvements Expand Nuku'alofa system to growth areas Development of a new Tongatapu well-field New Well Field for Neiafu, Vavau TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 7.0 8.0 15.0 11.4 10.0 12.0 T $ 63.4 Status C P P P P P Funding Source DG U U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
SOLID WASTE
In 2007, a new solid waste collection system was implemented on Tongatapu and the Waste Authority Limited (WAL) was established to take control of solid waste collection and disposal. This includes responsibility for disposal of sludge from septic tanks (septage) at the Tapuhia facility. On most other islands, formal arrangements for solid waste collection are not in place. However, the operational model for solid waste collection; charging and revenue collection; and management on Tongatapu has not worked as well as expected. Initiatives are underway to improve operational and financial performance. These initiatives plus investments in facilities and equipment will continue and gather pace under the Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project (NUDSP)(S5), wi th support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Australian Government. On Vavau, a program is also underway to improve the operational and environmental performance of the existing landfill facility, with assistance from the Government of Japan. In the short-medium term, planned projects focus on improved solid waste sector performance throughout Tonga (Table B.10). This includes proposed further investment equipment in facilities and for the WAL, including improved septage disposal facilities (S1,2), and development of solid waste disposal arrangements for Haapai (S6). On Haapai no formal arrangements are currently in place for the collection or disposal of solid waste. Options being considered include the development of an engineered landfill facility on Haapai; or a transfer station on Haapai with waste transported to the Tapuhia facility on Tongatapu for disposal. The development of a new semi-aerobic landfill facility is likely to be required on Vavau (S3) in the medium -longer term.
Table B.10: Solid Waste major projects underway, committed or proposed Ref S5 S1 S2 S6 S3 Project Sustainable Solid Waste Services in Nukualofa Additional capacity for septage treatment Equipment Renewal Program New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai New Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 2.8 3.0 2.0 4.0 5.0 T $ 16.8 Status C P P P P Funding Source DG U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
ROADS
Tonga has an extensive road network and one of the highest levels of road network density in the region . This network provides good access links to communities in terms of connectivity but in some areas the condition has deteriorated significantly due to insufficient emphasis on maintenance.
7
Measured in terms of road length/square km of land area. See: Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility, Pacific Infrastructure Performance Indicators (2011).
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The Government is addressing this problem through several road rehabilitation and upgrading programs in association with its development partners (Table B.11). The National Roads Improvement Project (R1) has rehabilitated selected trunk roads throughout the country; the Nukualofa Redevelopment program improved roads in the city centre (M1); the Integrated Urban Development Sector Program (IUDSP) is upgrading major routes into Nukualofa from the south (R2); and the Transport Sector Consolidation Project (TSCP)(R3) is trialling a new approach to road maintenance that makes greater use of private sector involvement. Contracts for routine maintenance have been awarded to private firms and are underway. Studies undertaken as part of the TSCP program provide a strategy for road maintenance over the next five to 10 years, including recommendations for road maintenance programming, institutional reform, sustainable funding mechanisms (such as a road fund), and private sector participation. In addition to these broader programs, commitments are already in place for specific investments to rehabilitate the Vaipua Bridge (Vavau)(R4) and Foa Causeway (Haapai)(R5). In the short-medium term, the Government will continue this emphasis on road maintenance and rehabilitation. This involves planned projects to rehabilitate key roads throughout the country, including trunk and agricultural roads on Tongatapu (R8); an outer-islands road upgrading program (R10); and resealing the key road link from Nukualofa to Fuaamotu International Airport (R9). In the longer term, the Government may also consider options for upgrading the Toula Causeway on Vavau (R7); and a new road linking Nukualofa with the southern side of Fangauta Lagoon by bridge or a causeway (R8). This road would provide better access to the southern and eastern sides of Tongatapu and the airport, and could provide an alternative evacuation/access route in case of natural disaster. However, it will require detailed planning, feasibility and design studies, environmental impact assessment and approval, and the identification of a suitable funding source.
Table B.11: Roads major investments underway, committed or proposed Ref R2 R3 R4 R9 R11 R10 R7 R8 Project Integrated Urban Development Sector Program Transport Sector Consolidation Project (Roads) Vaipua Bridge (Vavau) Resealing of Tongatapu Airport Rd Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Upgrading of Toula Causeway (Vavau) New road link to southern side of Fangauta Lagoon TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 12.0 11.6 7.8 11.6 16.0 10.0 20.0 50.0 T $ 118.2 Status U C C P P P P P Funding Source DL DG DG U U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
MARITIME
The maritime sector plays a vital role in the Tongan economy and community. It supports tourism; inter-island and international commerce; and inter-island travel for social, educational and medical needs. The existing ports have 8 sufficient capacity for foreseeable needs and there are no plans to build any new ports for commercial shipping operations. In addition, the international ports comply with relevant international and International Maritime Organisation (IMO) operating requirements. Although the port system meets basic needs for coverage, capacity, and compliance, the standard of infrastructure has suffered from a lack of investment in core infrastructure and facilities and an insufficient emphasis on the maintenance of outer-island ports and channels. Recent investments in the maritime sector include Government-funded minor works at all ports necessary for the operation of the new inter-island ferry (P2); upgrading of navigational aids and other port upgrades under the TSCP; and investments by Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) in upgrading ship and cargo handling facilities and equipment at Queen Salote Wharf (forklifts, fenders, pavements P3,4,5,6,8). The cruise ship terminal at Vuna Wharf (Nukualofa) has also been completed and commenced operation in December 2012 (P7). Responsibility for implementing these
Based on utilisation estimates from Tonga Transport Sector Review (2005) and updated to 2012.
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projects is split between PAT which is responsible for Queen Salote International and Domestic Wharves at Nukualofa, and the Ministry of Transport (MOI) which is responsible for all other ports. Safety is the Governments key priority for the maritime sector. In the short-medium term, planned investments (Table B.12) continue the focus on addressing deficiencies in safety (navigational aids, channels, etc) and cargo handling facilities (fenders, pavements). Building resilience to CCA/DRM in the maritime sector is an emerging priority. These two major issues come together in the proposed Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience (P9) project, which would be a major initiative designed to transform and modernise the maritime sector (especially for inter-island shipping); and prepare a long-term roadmap for sector development. The aim is to address urgent safety issues with an integrated sector-wide approach; and substantially upgrade the overall performance of the sector, so that maritime infrastructure matches the quality and safety of the new inter-island ferry MV 'Otuanga'ofa.
Table B.12: Ports and shipping major investments underway, committed or proposed Ref P6 P3 P10 P9 P17 P16 P12 P11 P13 P14 P15 Project Replace Fender at QSW International Wharf Reseal Queen Salote Wharf (QSW Int. and Dom.) Vuna Wharf (Stage 2 Marina) Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Multi-purpose Barge Nafanua ('Eua) Port Upgrade Yellow Pier Upgrade Upgrade of the Queen Salote Domestic Wharf New Slipway at QSW Barge for Deep Water Dredging Upgrade of Vavau port TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 1.0 11.3 20.0 20.0 4.5 3.0 7.5 9.0 1.5 1.0 25.0 T $ 101.9 Status C C P P P P P P P P P Funding Source PE PE U U U U U U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
AIRPORTS
Aviation also plays a vital role in the Tongan economy and community in terms of tourism; inter-island and international commerce; and travel for social, educational and medical needs. The existing commercial airports provide sufficient coverage to all island groups, and at this stage, there are no plans to build any additional airports. The airports have sufficient capacity for expected growth in passenger demand, but the length and current condition of runways place some limits on operation of larger aircraft. Much of the infrastructure is nearing the end of its useful life or requires upgrade to continue to meet international and national safety and security standards. Tonga already meets required service standards and complies with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements, or has been granted a temporary exemption from some requirements during a transition period. All commercial airports in Tonga are managed by Tonga Airports Ltd (TAL). A significant investment program is already underway or committed in the airport sector, with a focus on meeting safety and security compliance requirements in terms of fire and rescue capability, security screening, navigational aids, and runway condition. This includes upgrading and reconfiguring the international arrivals area at Fuaamotu (A6) and resurfacing of runways at Fuaamotu (A8) and Vavau (A10), which were priority projects under the first NIIP. The investments are being managed by TAL, with support under the WB-funded TSCP and PAIP programs, and in line with the strategic development plan for Tonga airports developed with supported under the TSCP. Additional planned investments in the airport sector in the short term (Table B.13) will continue the task of maintaining compliance with increasingly stringent safety and security requirements; ensuring that current aircraft types and new international aircraft likely to be used on Tonga services can operate without weight restrictions; and keeping Tonga competitive as an exporter and international travel destination. In particular this includes resurfacing of the runways, taxiways, and apron at Haapai (A11), and a new control tower at Fuaamotu (A12). In the medium longer term, expanding the apron and taxiway areas at Fuaamotu (A9) becomes a priority to cater for larger
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international aircraft; reduce congestion; provide more flexibility in aircraft operations; and provide additional parking space for aircraft.
Table B.13: Airports major investments underway, committed or proposed Ref A6 A8 A10 A9 A7 A11 A12 A13 Project Upgrade International Arrivals area (Fuaamotu) Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway Resurfacing of Vavau runway, apron, taxiway Expand apron area at Fuaamotu Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) Resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, taxiway Control Tower for Fua'amotu New Aircraft Hangar at Fua'amotu TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 1.5 38.0 11.0 25.0 1.0 9.0 7.0 2.0 T $ 93.8 Status C C C P P P P P Funding Source DG DG DG U U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
MULTI-SECTOR
Multi-sector projects generally fall into two broad categories. The first involves complex construction projects with the need for coordination across several sectors, such as electricity, telecommunications, and water. The Nukualofa CBD Redevelopment (M1) is an example is this type of multi-sector project. It involved upgrading basic infrastructure in the CBD area, including roads, underground power and additional High Voltage supply, drainage, grey water collection system, footpaths, and street lighting. Another example is restoration of basic infrastructure on Niuatoputapu following the tsunami in 2009. Complex multi-sector projects expected in the next five to 10 years include preparation for the Pacific Games 2019 and the planned Government Ministerial Complex. The second category involves cross-cutting issues, especially climate change adaptation and disaster risk management (CCA/DRM). The Government is committed to working with development partners to better manage CCA/DRM risks, and initiatives are already underway to strengthen Government capability in this area and ensure that adequate consideration is given to CCA/DRM issues in infrastructure development. The Joint Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management 2010-2015 has been prepared with assistance from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Applied Geoscience and Technology Division of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC-SOPAC), and United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Implementation is underway, especially in relation to smaller community-based initiatives. In addition, a Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom Of Tonga has been prepared under the Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) process. These documents provide a framework for developing and implementing infrastructure responses to CCA/DRM. For a more detailed discussion of CCA/DRM issues, see Annex D. Planned multi-sector investments focus on complex multi-sector construction projects, and on increasing resilience of the community and economy to CCA/DRM impacts (see Table B.14). This includes coastal protection initiatives on Tongatapu (M2,3); infrastructure supporting improved disaster response and evacuation throughout the country (M4); and a package of works to strengthen the resilience of community infrastructure (water supply, telecommunications, port, etc) on Haapai (M5). In the medium -longer term, coordination of multi-sector infrastructure supporting the Pacific Games 2019 (M7) and planned Government Ministerial Complex (M6) will become priorities. At this stage, the requirement for development/upgrading basic infrastructure and services (power, water, telecoms, roads, etc) is not clearly defined, so these projects have been included in list of planned projects but have not been costed.
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Table B.14: Multi-sector major projects underway, committed or proposed Ref M2 M4 M5 M3 M6 M7 Project Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu Disaster Response & Evacuation Infrastructure Ha'apai Community Resilience Western Tongatapu Resilience Government Ministerial Complex Pacific Games 2019 TOTAL Notes: 1. 2. Estimated Cost (T$ million) 15.0 12.0 12.0 20.0 tbd tbd T$59.0 Status P P P P P P Funding Source U U U U U U FY14-18 FY19-23
Includes investment projects that are underway, committed or proposed. Planned expenditure is for the period 2013/14 to 2022/23 and does not include any prior expenditure on projects already underway. See Annex A for more details.
Table B.15: Planned investment by sector and year (in TS millions) Project 1 Energy Telecommunications 2 Water Solid waste Roads Ports and shipping Airports Multi-sector TOTAL Notes: 2013-2014 29.6 47.3 8.0 5.9 10.6 20.4 74.8 5.0 201.6 2014-2015 47.8 25.3 12.0 5.9 8.5 21.2 11.0 15.0 146.7 2015-2016 35.4 23.0 7.3 5.0 11.1 20.1 9.0 25.0 135.9 2016-2017 20.3 5.0 9.6 0.0 10.3 16.1 0.0 14.0 75.3 2017-2018 11.9 0.0 4.6 0.0 7.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 24.2 2018-2023 17.1 0.0 22.0 0.0 70.0 29.0 0.0 0.0 138.1 TOTAL 162.1 100.6 63.5 16.8 118.2 106.8 94.8 59.0 721.8
1. Includes investment projects that are underway, committed, or proposed. 2. Excludes the TCC.
These figures should be viewed in context of recent and possible future trends in infrastructure expenditure. Figure B.8 shows the possible expenditure profile; again, on the assumption that all proposed projects on the NIIP2013 long list go ahead. It also includes previous years covered by NIIP2010 for comparison. Over the first two years of the period covered by NIIP2010, there was a peak in infrastructure investment as a number of major projects were implemented. This includes completion of the National Roads Improvement Program; Nukualofa CBD infrastructure redevelopment and Vuna Wharf cruise ship terminal; and delivery of the new inter-island ferry. Following a period of reduced activity in 2012/13, there is another peak possible in the period from 2013/14 to 2015/16 if all proposed projects go ahead as planned. In part this occurs because several large projects that are already underway or
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committed are scheduled for implementation. This includes laying of the undersea fibre-optic communications cable to Fiji (T7) and resurfacing of the Fuaamotu and Vavau airport runways (A8,10). These three projects have some T$90 million of committed expenditure scheduled for 2013-14.
Figure B.7: Planned investment by sector over the next five years
Multi-sector 10%
Airports 16%
Energy 25%
Proposed 68%
Underway 17%
Committed 15%
Maritime 14%
Telecoms 17%
Roads 8%
Solid waste 3%
Water 7%
Million pa'anga
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016-2017
2017-2018
2018-2023
Operational
Underway
Committed
Proposed
Considering the scale of infrastructure investment required to implement all proposed projects on the NIIP2013 long list and completing projects already underway and committed at the same time, the scenario shown in Figure B.8 does not appear feasible with the available financial resources and implementation capacity. Therefore, decisions needed to be made about investment priorities. The next step is to prioritise the proposals and develop a sustainable investment program for NIIP2013.
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Projects included in NIIP2010 which are now operational, and projects in infrastructure sub-sectors which are underway or committed, were automatically included in the coverage of NIIP2013. Proposed projects were the subject of a screening and prioritisation process (outlined below), which identified the high priority proposed projects to be given first consideration in this NIIP. Figure C.1 summarises the project processing system for this NIIP.
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Long List of Projects Proposed Projects
43
32
Screened Projects Next 5 years
+ =
11
Longer-Term Projects
Step 2: Prioritisation via Multi-Criteria Assessment Step 3: Review of funding, implementation capacity, and project linkages
31
13
44
13
13
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Step 1: Screening
This step involved screening proposed projects for strategic alignment (consistency with government policy), timing (checking that the project is needed within the timeframe of this NIIP), and noting availability of cost-benefit analysis. The strategic alignment check considered consistency with government development objectives, focusing in particular on the Tonga Strategic Development Framework 2011 2014 (TSDF). Other important facets of the development planning framework in Tonga include the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), sector level plans, district level plans, and entity level plans such as corporate and business plans. The intention of the strategic alignment check was to identify and screen out any projects which do not support the objectives of this hierarchy of plans. In practice, it would appear that all projects on the list of proposed projects are accorded high priority in their infrastructure sectors and have been developed with the planning framework in mind. No projects were screened out in this check. The project timing check screened out eleven projects which were considered to address longer term needs and would not be needed within the next five years. Most projects on the list of proposed projects are at an early stage of development, without formal project documentation and pre-feasibility studies. Projects were not screened out on the basis of lack of project preparation and documentation, and this may mean that some attrition will occur during the implementation of this NIIP as more detailed studies are undertaken of individual projects. Projects which passed the screening step were then subject to Step 2, a multi-criteria assessment.
MCA is a rapid appraisal technique, applied in the absence of detailed pre-feasibility studies for many proposed projects. It must be acknowledged that the MCA is not able to fully capture the viability of projects as it does not involve a rigorous comparison of project costs and benefits. This means that all proposed projects, including those scoring well in the multi-criteria assessment, need to undergo more detailed project preparation and appraisal (including cost-benefit analysis and in some cases environmental impact assessment) before proceeding. The starting point for the selection and weighting of criteria for the multi-criteria assessment was a review of the criteria and weights used in NIIP2010, undertaken with MFNP staff and then considered by t he Governments NIIP Working Group. Factors considered in this review included developments since the preparation of NIIP2010, most notably the release of the TSDF. The major changes introduced in the criteria used in this NIIP were the addition of a headline criterion dealing with climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk management (DRM), and broadening the scope of the readiness headline criterion used in NIIP2010 into a project sustainability headline criterion, with financial, technical, and institutional dimensions. The criteria and sub-criteria selected for the MCA are described in Table C.1. The criteria capture key economic, social, environmental, CCA/DRM, and project sustainability considerations. They are by necessity high-level criteria, given that they are to be applied to projects across the full range of infrastructure sub-sectors: energy, telecommunications, water and sanitation, solid waste management, roads, maritime, airports, and multi-sector.
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Table C.1: Criteria used in multi-criteria assessment Headline criteria Sub-criteria Access to markets Economic Cost / efficiency Service capacity Descriptions Whether the project creates new economic opportunities, especially through improving access to markets, with flow on effects such as job creation. Whether the project reduces the cost to consumers and/or the cost of supply (through efficiency gains). Whether the project maintains or increases capacity to cater for demand for services, especially demand arising from increased economic activity. Whether the project improves access to social services and opportunities, including education and health services, recreation etc. Whether the project extends basic service coverage to new areas and/or more people. Whether the project improves the overall quality, reliability, or safety of infrastructure services delivered to consumers. Whether the project impacts on ambient soil, water, or air quality. Whether the project impacts on terrestrial and/or marine ecosystems. Whether the project has an existing or potential DRM or climate change adaptation function. Whether the project is able to cope with the potential effects of climate variability or climate change. Whether the project has an impact on GHG emissions. Whether the project is able to support the ongoing costs of operation and maintenance through user charges etc. Whether the technology used in the project is appropriate, and able to be operated and maintained. Whether the institution responsible for the project has sufficient capacity for implementation, operation and maintenance.
Social access Social Service coverage Service quality / reliability / safety Effects on ambient soil, water, or air quality Effects on terrestrial and marine ecosystems Disaster risk management or climate change adaptation function Climate change / Disaster risk management Degree of resilience to climate variability or climate change Effects on GHG emissions Financial Project sustainability Technical Institutional
Environmental
Comparing these weights with those used in NIIP2010, the major changes were the addition of a headline criterion dealing specifically with CCA and DRM, and broadening the scope of the Readiness headline criterion used in NIIP2010 into a Project Sustainability headline criterion, with financial, technical, and institutional dimensions. The review also considered the weighting attached to each criterion with the aim of simplifying the weightings and better reflecting the balance of economic, social, and environmental objectives of the TSDF and the need for project sustainability. The weighting of the Social criterion was increased to give equal weight to Social and Economic headline criteria; and the weighting applied to the Environmental headline criterion in NIIP2010 has been distributed equally between the Environmental and CCA/DRM headline criteria. The weighting applied to the Project Sustainability headline criterion is similar to the weighting of the Readiness headline criterion in NIIP2010, but with a high weighting attached to the financial sustainability sub-criterion. Overall, economic and financial factors continue to have the highest weighting in the MCA. Within headline criteria weightings, weights were applied to individual sub-criteria on the basis of their perceived importance. A worksheet was developed to facilitate the screening and multi-criteria analysis steps in short-listing of projects for this NIIP. Sub-criteria were scored on a scale of 0 to 5 (scores of 4 and 5 represent strong performance against the criteria, scores of 2 and 3 represent moderate performance, and scores of 0 and 1 represent weak performance).
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Scoring was undertaken against the base case of the project not going ahead (thus, for example, avoiding a cost or loss of a benefit is considered as well as generating a benefit). Preliminary scoring was undertaken by the technical assistance team working together with the MFNP, with the results reviewed by a workshop of representatives of government agencies with a stake in infrastructure provision. The results of the MCA are shown in Table C.2.
Table C.2: Results of the multi-criteria assessment Ref. Sector/Project Energy Upgrade Bulk Fuel Facilities (Tank Farm, Bunkering) Solar Generation (Tongatapu - Additional 1-2 MW) Biomass Generation ('Eua) Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project Upgrade of Nukualofa Electricity Distribution Network Telecommunications Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Water and sanitation Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua) Expand Nuku'alofa Water System to Growth Areas Water Softening for Nukualofa Solid waste S1 S2 S3 S6 R9 R10 R11 P9 P10 P11 P12 P16 P17 A7 A9 A11 A12 A13 M2 M3 M4 M5 Additional Capacity for Septage treatment WM Equipment Renewal Program New Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Roads Resealing of Tongatapu Airport Rd Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program Maritime Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Vuna Wharf Development (Stage 2 Marina) Upgrade of the Queen Salote Domestic Wharf Yellow Pier Upgrade Nafanua ('Eua) Port Upgrade Multi-purpose Barge Aviation Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) Expand Apron and New Taxiways at Fuaamotu Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway Control Tower for Fua'amotu New Aircraft Hangar at Fua'amotu Multi-sector Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu Western Tongatapu Resilience Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Ha'apai Community Resilience 14 12 16 8 24 22 26 26 6 6 6 5 9 9 9 9 10 11 10 7 63 60 67 55 12 18 26 18 12 18 10 22 14 8 6 6 6 6 4 4 7 8 6 3 14 17 15 17 17 54 58 78 62 45 24 20 16 8 22 16 20 6 16 12 16 14 6 6 6 6 2 2 9 5 5 3 7 6 11 13 16 13 10 13 70 50 59 42 58 50 10 22 20 10 20 18 4 4 4 6 8 7 11 11 11 42 65 60 22 20 16 22 8 12 16 20 10 8 8 10 5 3 6 6 9 9 7 7 54 52 53 65 Economic (30%) Social (30%) Environmental (10%) CCA/DRM (10%) Project sustainability (20%) 20 20 14 19 17 Total (100%)
18 26 22 26 20
8 6 6 8 10
6 6 6 6 6
6 6 5 6 6
58 64 53 65 59
T9 T10
30 6
24 26
2 6
7 9
17 17
80 68
W3 W4 W6
24 18 12
22 22 10
4 4 6
7 6 3
16 16 16
73 66 47
Note: scores for headline criteria are the weighted sum of sub-criteria scores (with each sub-criterion scored on a scale of 0 to 5).
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Based on the MCA ranking and these considerations, projects were graded into three bands as High, Medium, or Lower priority. 13 projects were considered of highest priority (with a total capital cost of T$172 million). These projects have the highest MCA scores (score>60), and as a package, have a total investment cost that is considered feasible within current funding constraints. The other bands comprise 10 projects considered to be of medium priority (with a total capital cost of T$146 million), and nine projects of lower priority (with a total capital cost of T$74 million). The high priority projects should be the first considered in the NIIP investment plan for the period 2013/14 to 2017/18. The results of the project prioritisation process are shown in Table C.3.
Table C.3: Prioritisation of proposed projects Ref. T9 A11 W3 P9 T10 M4 W4 S6 R10 E16 E11 M2 A12 M3 R11 P11 E19 E9 P16 A9 M5 A7 S1 S3 E15 S2 P17 P10 W6 A13 P12 R9 Project Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua) Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Expand Nuku'alofa Water System to Growth Areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project Solar Generation (Tongatapu - Additional 1-2 MW) Coastal Protection - Eastern Tongatapu Control Tower for Fua'amotu Western Tongatapu Resilience Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program Upgrade of the Queen Salote Domestic Wharf Upgrade of Nukualofa Electricity Distribution Network Upgrade Bulk Fuel Facilities (Tank Farm, Bunkering) Nafanua ('Eua) Port Upgrade Expand Apron and New Taxiways at Fuaamotu Ha'apai Community Resilience Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) Additional Capacity for Septage Treatment New Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility Biomass Generation ('Eua) WM Equipment Renewal Program Multi-purpose Barge Vuna Wharf Development (Stage 2 Marina) Water Softening for Nukualofa System New Aircraft Hangar at Fua'amotu Yellow Pier Upgrade Resealing of Tongatapu Airport Rd Capital cost (T$ million) 30 9 15 20 6 12 11 4 10 9 24 15 7 20 16 9 26 30 3 25 12 2 3 5 10 2 4 23 8 2 7 11 MCA score 80 78 73 70 68 67 66 65 65 65 64 63 62 60 60 59 59 58 58 58 55 54 54 53 53 52 50 50 47 45 42 42 Priority High High High High High High High High High High High High High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Lower Lower Lower Lower Lower Lower Lower Lower Lower
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The total investment cost over five years for projects underway and committed (T$173 million) and high priority proposed projects (T$172 million), together with the ongoing maintenance costs of these investments (T$14.0 million per year by the end of the first five years of NIIP2013 including those projects from NIIP2010 now operational, with T$3.3 million of this relating to new projects, see Annex E), is considered manageable. Implementation capacity, involving a mix of international and national contractors, is also considered adequate. Lastly, the review of linkages among projects did not identify any need to advance projects with lower rankings in the multi-criteria assessment, due to synergies with other projects. The 13 high priority projects are presented by infrastructure sub-sector in Table C.4. All sub-sectors addressed by the NIIP process have at least one project included in the list of high priority projects. Notably, in comparison with NIIP2010, projects directed at the provision of services to outer islands are more strongly represented, as are projects supporting CCA and DRM.
Table C.4: High priority projects by sector Sector Energy Project Outer Islands On-grid Renewable Energy Project Solar Generation (Tongatapu - additional 1-2 MW) Fibre-optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) Expand Nukualofa Water System to Growth Areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Program Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu Est. cost (T$ million) 9 24 30 6 15 11 4 10 20 9 7 12 15
Telecommunications
Multi-sector
Tables C.5 and C.6 respectively show the projects by sector that have been accorded medium and lower priority. Given constraints on funding and implementation capacity, it is unlikely that these projects can be implemented within the next five years. However, they can be retained for future consideration as the NIIP is rolled over in future years.
Table C.5: Medium priority projects by sector Sector Energy Solid waste Roads Maritime Project Upgrade of Nukualofa Electricity Distribution Network Upgrade Bulk Fuel Facilities (Tank Farm, Bunkering) Additional Capacity for Septage treatment Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program Upgrade of the Queen Salote Domestic Wharf Nafanua ('Eua) Port Upgrade Expand Apron and New Taxiways at Fuaamotu Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) Western Tongatapu Resilience Ha'apai Community Resilience Est. cost (T$ million) 26 30 3 16 9 3 25 2 20 12
Aviation
Multi-sector
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Table C.6: Lower priority projects by sector Sector Energy Water Solid waste Roads Project Biomass Generation ('Eua) Water Softening for Nukualofa System New Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility WM Equipment Renewal Program Resealing of Tongatapu Airport Rd Multi-purpose Barge Maritime Vuna Wharf Development (Stage 2 Marina) Yellow Pier Upgrade Aviation New Aircraft Hangar at Fua'amotu Est. cost (T$ million) 10 8 5 2 12 5 23 7 2
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The World Risk Report, ranks Tonga as having the second highest risk globally to natural disaster risk based on consideration of exposure, susceptibility, coping capacity and adaptive capacity (United Nations University: Institute for Environment and Human Security, 2011); a Small States Secretariat analysis ranks Tonga third out of 111 countries in terms of vulnerability to climate change; whilst the Global Climate Risk Index ranks Tonga 19th out of 179 countries in terms of observed average annual losses as a percentage of GDP due to climate related disasters between 1991 and 2010, and 19th in terms of deaths per hundred thousand of population in this same period. 2 Kingdom of Tonga, National Strategic Planning Framework (2010). 3 See for example Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Preparing for a Changing Climate (2011); Royal Academy of Engineers, Infrastructure Engineering and Climate Change Adaptation: Ensuring Services in an Uncertain Future (2011); J Neumann, Adaptation to Climate Change: Revisiting Infrastructure Norms (2009). 4 In the context of the analyses contained in this report, climate change and natural disasters refers to current and fu ture climate variability, longer term changes in mean climatic parameters, and non-climate related natural disasters, namely tsunamis and earthquakes.
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D.1: Development of a framework for the integration of DRM and CCA issues in the NIIP
The development of a framework to guide the integration of DRM and CCA issues in the NIIP updating process was based on: a review of the way in which such issues were considered in the development and implementation of the NIIP2010; and a review of international best practice for the treatment of DRM and CCA issues in infrastructure planning and development.
NIIP2010 contain very limited reference to DRM or CCA issues. There are references to the multi-function role that some infrastructure can play in responding to natural disasters (e.g. the importance of AM radio communications for early warning systems (EWSs), or the dual use of roads for evacuation). However, the potential dual-use function of infrastructure is not carried forward into the analysis or development of priority projects. There is no explicit consideration of DRM or CCA issues in the multi-criteria analysis (MCA) that was used to prioritise projects. The climate change mitigation benefits of potential projects are considered in a qualitative manner in the MCA, but no link is made to CCA. Furthermore, NIIP2010 contains no explicit consideration of the risks to infrastructure or the ways in which infrastructure investments could be rendered more climate resilient. NIIP2010 recognised that the JNAP preparation process was being conducted in parallel to its development and recommends that future revisions of the NIIP address DRM and CCA issues. It contains reference to an unidentified, un-costed climate change adaptation project to be implemented in the medium term, and envisages that future versions of the NIIP will include a priority theme related to DRM and CCA that will be closely aligned with the recommendations of the JNAP. Discussions with Government stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of NIIP2010 revealed a generally high level of awareness of issues related to climate change and natural disasters, but a relatively low awareness of Government policy to address climate change, or of practical solutions to address climate change and natural disaster risks in infrastructure planning and development. In addition, the stakeholder consultation indicated that: there is no legal obligation for the treatment of climate and natural disaster risks in infrastructure development, and technical capacity to carry out such work was low within sector agencies and public enterprises; integration of measures into NIIP2010 projects was carried out on a case-by-case basis and was influenced by the skills of the implementing body, and in some cases, the requirements of donors or of international financial partners; and there is no clear framework or systematic approach for climate risk analysis or resilience building in the sector.
All stakeholders welcomed the opportunity to include DRM and CCA issues in the updating of the NIIP both as a means of identifying pragmatic and cost-effective measures to address climate change and natural disaster risks in the infrastructure, and as an important step in mainstreaming these issues into Government sector policy. A framework for the integration of DRM and CCA aspects into the NIIP process, including a vision and a series of principles, was developed in consultation with stakeholders. The following vision statement was agreed upon:
Infrastructure projects contained in the NIIP2013 have optimal levels of climate resilience, and where relevant have been developed to maximise their CCA and/or DRM function.
To achieve this vision, the following principles were then developed to guide the integration of DRM and CCA issues in the NIIP process: 1. Mainstreaming of DRM and CCA issues: DRM and CCA are mainstreamed throughout all stages of NIIP2013 development; this includes consideration of CCA/DRM issues in project identification and prioritisation, project development and costing, and monitoring and evaluation.
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2.
3.
4.
5. 6.
Short-term and long-term climate risks: consideration is given both to existing and short-term future climate risks, and, as relevant to the lifespan of infrastructure included in NIIP2013, future changes in the frequency and/or intensity of extreme events and long term changes in average climate. Integration throughout infrastructure life-cycle: DRM and CCA issues are considered throughout the life-cycle of planned investments; i.e. throughout planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance, costing, and budgeting. DRM and CCA enabling environment: actions to enhance the enabling environment for DRM and CCA are considered in line with infrastructure investments to ensure that the necessary software is in place to maximise the effectiveness of investments. Cost-effectiveness of actions: actions relating to DRM and CCA issues are based around a no-regrets and low-regrets approach to project identification to optimise cost effectiveness of future investments. Adaptive management approach: the integration of DRM and CCA issues will be viewed as a flexible and ongoing process, subject to adaptive management principles; the results of monitoring and evaluation will allow future review and refinement of DRM and CCA issues in the future iterations of the NIIP.
The steps that were followed to integrate DRM and CCA issues in the updating process for the NIIP are illustrated below (Figure D.1).
Figure D.1: Actions to Integrate DRM and CCA issues in NIIP2013 Step 1: Rapid climate and natural disaster risk assessment Step 2: Long-list of projects Develop baseline information on risks posed to economic infrastructure that can be used to guide subsequent steps of process Identify new economic infrastructure or DRM/CCA projects for long-list, or modify existing projects to address key risks Include consideration of DRM and CCA issues in overall MCA process to prioritize investments Evaluate climate impacts on priority economic infrastructure investments and develop and cost resilience building measures Develop planning, design, construction and operation details for priority adaptation infrastructure options and undertake costings Identify the required enabling environment improvements required to support economic and DRM/CCA infrastructure Identify a mix of suitable funding options that could be leveraged to support resilience building and adaptation infrastructure Include DRM and CCA considerations in the NIIP monitoring and evaluation framework to facilitate adaptive management
Step 3: Multi-criteria analysis Step 4: Optimize climate resilience of priority economic infrastructure projects Step 5: Optimize functionality of priority adaptation infrastructure projects Step 6: Enabling environment
D.2: Analysis of the vulnerability of economic infrastructure to climate change and natural disasters
This section contains a preliminary analysis of the vulnerability of economic infrastructure in Tonga to climate and natural disasters. Vulnerability is defined as the degree to which a system is susceptible to, and unable to cope with, 5 the adverse effects of climate variability, long-term climate change, and/or natural disasters. Vulnerability is taken to be a function of geographical exposure to changes in climate (including climate variability) or natural disasters, the degree and severity of the impacts caused, and the prevailing degree of resilience or adaptive capacity that allows systems to respond to and absorb the impacts of climate change, including climate variability and natural disasters. The largely qualitative climate vulnerability assessment presented in this section is based on a desktop review of existing information sources and discussions with Government and development partner counterparts in Tonga and the Pacific region. It is based on:
5
Based on the widely accepted definition adopted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2007).
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the preparation of a climate and natural disaster profile for Tonga that documents current knowledge of the current and projected future exposure to climate change and natural disasters (specifically earthquakes and tsunamis); the preparation of a rapid risk assessment for economic infrastructure including preparation of climate and natural disaster risk assessments for each economic infrastructure sector, and consideration of broad spatial patterns of risk; and an analysis of the key features of the countrys and the sectors enabling environment for DRM and CCA that determines the institutional adaptive capacity.
Located in the western South Pacific Ocean, Tonga has a typically tropical climate. There is a marked wet season between November and April, when two-thirds of annual rainfall occurs. The remaining rainfall is experienced in the dry season between May and October. Average annual rainfall varies across the country; figures are higher in Niua Foou (2453mm/year), Niua Toputapu (2374mm/year) , and Vavau (2150 mm/year), than in Tongatapu (1721mm/year) and Haapai (1619 mm/year). Inter-annual rainfall variability is high and during the wettest years, total annual rainfall can be three times higher than during the driest years. The El Nio Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a major influence on inter-annual rainfall variability. Trends in annual rainfall for the period 1950 to 2009 are not statistically significant. Seasonal changes in air temperature result from the location of Tonga close to the sub-tropics, with sea surface temperature (SST) of surrounding waters exerting an influence on seasonal variations. Average annual air temperatures vary from 27C at Niua Foou and Niua Toputapu, to 24C on Tongatapu. During the wet season, air temperature is generally higher than during the dry season and diurnal and seasonal variations can reach as high as 6C throughout the country. Increases in air temperature (warming trends) have been observed for annual and
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seasonal mean air temperatures in Nukualofa for the period from 1950 to 2009, with the strongest trends of 0.16C/decade recorded in the wet season. Data from 1970 to 2009 indicate warming trends of 0.4 to 0.9C in annual mean temperature in Haapai, Vavau and Niua Toputapu. Sea level trend data indicate rising sea levels of approximately 6mm/year since 1993; this equates to a cumulative sea level rise (SLR) of approximately 114mm in this 19-year period. The rate of sea level rise experienced is greater than the global average of 3.2 0.4 mm/year. SLR is associated with coastal erosion and can increase the magnitude of storm surge as it provides a higher starting point for wave action. Coastal erosion is being e xperienced along much of the northern coastline of Tongatapu, and along the coastline of Lifuka Island in Haapai. SST data indicates that warming has been experienced at the rate of approximately 0.06C per decade since 1970. However, at the regional scales in which the models operate, natural variability certainly plays a large role and it is difficult to identify long-term trends. SST is of concern because it plays a role in coral bleaching events: the last major coral bleaching event in the waters surrounding Tonga was in 2000. Anecdotal evidence indicates that smaller-scale coral bleaching events have become more frequent in recent years. Ocean acidification, which is driven by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO 2) in seawater and measured in terms of the aragonite saturation state (ar), is an important influence on coral growth and the development of healthy reef th ecosystems. In the Tongan region, the aragonite saturation state declined from around ar = 4.5 in the late 18 century, to ar = 4.0 0.1 by 2000, indicating increased seawater acidity. On average, Tonga experiences 17 tropical cyclones per decade with most occurring in the wet season between November and April. Tropical cyclones exhibit high inter-annual variability ranging from zero some years to five cyclones per year in other years. Tropical cyclone incidence is highest in ENSO years. This high inter-annual variability makes it difficult to identify long term trends in cyclone frequency, however there is some evidence that decadal frequency is increasing with seven cyclones experienced in the 1960s, compared to 15 in the 1990s. Storm surge and extreme sea level events are most commonly associated with named tropical cyclones. Droughts in Tonga are linked to low rainfall during ENSO periods. The last three major drought events were in 1983, 1998, and 2006. During these droughts, annual rainfall measured from 70-142mm/year, more than ten times less than average annual rainfall in non-drought periods.
Scenarios used are drawn from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2007) and are B1 a low emissions scenario, A1B a medium emissions scenario, and A2 a high emissions scenario; the corresponding timeframes are three twenty-year periods centred on 2030, 2055 and 2090 relative to 1990. John E Hay & Associates, Mainstreaming Environmental Considerations in Economic and Development Planning Processes in Selected Pacific Developing Member Countries: Climate Risk Profile for Tonga, Asian Development Bank Technical Assistance Consultants Report (2008).
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erosion, and saline intrusion into groundwater (see Table D.1). An hourly sea level of 2.2m currently has a return period of 579 years; by 2050, it is projected that this return period will decrease to 1.5 years.
Table D.1: Return Periods for hourly sea level at Nukualofa Hourly Sea Level (m) 1.9 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 Source: John E Hay & Associates, 2008. Observed Return Period (Years) 3.3 17 98 579 >1000 >1000 >1000 Projected Return Period in 2050 (Years) 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 5.1 24 122
Table D.2 provides an estimate of the population and land area that could be affected by SLR scenarios of 0.3m and 1.0m, with and without storm surge, and highlights the negative synergies projected to occur between SLR and storm surge. Table D.2 indicates that with a SLR of 0.3m (a scenario in the middle of the projected range), 14 per cent of the population and nearly four per cent of the land area of Tongatapu could be inundated. If the same SLR scenario occurred simultaneously with a storm surge equivalent to that recorded in 1983, over one third of the population and over 10 per cent of the land area of Tongatapu could be affected by periodic inundation. Haapai, a group of 43 low elevation ( 1.0m ASL) coral islands, is likely to be significantly affected by SLR.
Table D.2: Estimates of population and land area affected by SLR in Tongatapu No storm surge SLR = 0.3m Population affected Land area affected 3,000 (4.3%) 3.1 km2 (1.1%) SLR = 1.0m 10,000 (14.2%) 10.3 km2 (3.9%) With storm surge (2.8m based on historic records) No SLR 22,000 (31%) n.a. SLR = 0.3m 27,000 (37%) 27.9km2 (11%) SLR = 1.0m 33,000 (46%) 37.3km2 (14%)
Source: Adapted from Mimura, 1999; population estimates have been updated to reflect 2006 census data.
SST is expected to continue to increase at a rate that is comparable with (or slightly weaker) than air temperature increase. By 2050, the return period of a maximum water temperature event of 31C is projected to have decreased to once every five years, compared to the current period of once every 33 years. Ocean acidification is also expected to continue to increase with aragonite saturation state values projected to reach ar = 3.5 by 2035, and continue to decline thereafter. Little change in the frequency of drought events is projected. Mild droughts are expected to occur between six and nine times in a twenty year period, while moderate and severe droughts are projected to occur once to twice or once every twenty years respectively. Forecasts in relation to cyclone frequency and intensity are inconclusive. In the southeast Pacific Basin (0 - 40S, 170E - 130W) where Tonga is located, the frequency of tropical cyclones is expected to decrease. These projections are at a large scale and it is difficult to draw conclusions for Tonga, particularly in light of the prevailing high inter-annual frequency of cyclones. The intensity of cyclones may increase (i.e. an increase in the proportion of the most severe cyclones). Most models indicate a reduction in tropical cyclone wind hazards north of the 20S latitude and an increase in hazard south of this latitude. Tonga is traversed by the 20S latitude and thus national level projections are again difficult to develop. There is some evidence that the frequency of extreme wind gusts (often associated with cyclones) could increase. For example, a maximum daily wind gust of at least 65m/s is currently a one in 100 year 8 event; by 2050, it is projected that a wind gust of this magnitude will become a one in 50 year event.
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Table D.3 presents a summary of the future climate scenarios projected for Tonga in terms of likely outcomes, as well as in terms of the level of confidence of outcomes, which is effectively a measure of the degree to which the different GCMs agree on an outcome.
Table D.3: Summary of future climate projections for Tonga Climate Parameter Annual average air temperature Total annual rainfall Wet season rainfall Dry season rainfall Sea level Annual average SST Annual maximum aragonite saturation state Cyclone frequency Cyclone intensity Mild drought frequency Moderate drought frequency Severe drought frequency Projected Outcomes direction of trend Continued increase Little change Increase Decrease Continued increase Continued increase Continued increase Decline Increase Little change Little change Little change degree of change9 0.6C in 2030 to 2.6C in 2090 1% increase in 2030 to 9% increase in 2090 2% increase in 2030 to 16% increase in 2090 1% increase in 2030 to 3% decrease in 2090 5 -15 cm increase in 2030 to 20 - 60 cm increase in 2090 0.6C in 2030 to 2.4C in 2090 3.4ar in 2030 to 2.4ar in 2090 Not available Not available 7 - 9 times / 20 year period 1 2 times / 20 year period 1 time / 20 year period Confidence Level direction of trend degree of change Very high Low Moderate Moderate Very high Very high Very high Moderate Not stated Low Low Low Moderate Low Moderate Low Moderate Moderate Moderate Not available Not stated Low Low Low
The degree of change presented in Table 2.1 provides a range from the lowest to the highest projected value across all mode ls and all across all timeframes. US Geological Service Earthquake Database, http://neic.usgs.gov (accessed 21 November 2012). 11 The modelling and the associated tsunami evacuation plan is being carried out by the MLECCNR in collaboration with the NEMO, and with the support of SOPAC. At the time of writing the modelling results and mapping had not been finalized and could thus not be included in the report. Information presented above is based on discussions with officers from MLECCR and NEMO. It is propo sed to carry out a similar modelling exercise for Haapai in the near future. 12 Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI), Country Risk Profile for Tonga (2011).
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EM-DAT: The OFDA/CRED International Disaster Database www.emdat.be, Universit Catholique de Louvain, Brussels (Belgium). Major tropical cyclones recorded in the database include those that killed 10 or more people, or affected 100 or more people, or triggered declaration of a station of emergency or a call for international assistance. 14 National Emergency Management Office, Revised Initial Damage Assessment Report of the National Emergency Operations Committee on Tropical Cyclone Rene (2010). 15 Tonga Meteorological Service, Climate Summary of Tonga (2006).
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TSUNAMIS AND EARTHQUAKES Tsunamis and earthquakes since 1900 have historically caused less damage than cyclones when measured in economic terms. Such events caused T$18.8 million in damages over this period, compared to T$142.3 million for 16 cyclones. However, tsunamis and earthquakes have the potential to cause more significant damage to infrastructure 17 per event than cyclones. In 2009, two successive earthquakes measuring 8.1 and 8.0 on the Richter scale caused a tsunami that killed nine people, inundated 55 per cent of the total land area, and destroyed roughly half the housing 18 stock on the northern island of Niua Toputapu as well as the islands hospital . In 1977 an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale caused considerable damage to infrastructure in the south of the country; and in 2006 an event measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale caused damage to the hospital and wharf in Haapai. This event is thought to have caused a subsidence of 23cm on the western side of Lifuka Island , thereby increasing the relative 19 sea level.
Table D.4: Long-List of potential primary and secondary impacts by infrastructure sector Infrastructure Sector Climate Change Manifestations Potential Primary Impacts Potential Secondary Impacts Increased maintenance and repair costs Electricity outages leading to disruption to economic activity / provision of social services Increased demand with system capacity exceeded Accelerated deterioration of assets Increased cost of electricity Pollutant escape leading to soil and water pollution Increased maintenance and repair costs Communications outages leading to disruption to economic activity / provision of social services Accelerated deterioration of assets Increased cost of telecommunications
Cyclone / storm frequency or intensity Sea level rise Rainfall intensity Extreme heat Drought
Wind induced damage Flooding / coastal erosion Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation or sub-structure failure Corrosion from salt aerosol deposits
Communications
Wind induced damage Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation or sub-structure failure
16 17
Emergency Events Database, www.emdat.be. Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI), Country Risk Profile for Tonga. 18 Ministry of Lands, Survey and Natural Resources (MLSNR), Pacific IWRM Project Results Note: Improvement and Sustainable Management of Neiafu, Vavasus Groundwater Resource (2009). 19 Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Lifuka Island Tonga at the forefront in understanding climate change impacts on small islands, (16 March 2012), http://www.spc.int/en/component/content/article/216-about-spc-news/869-lifuka-island-tonga-at-the-forefront-in-understanding-climate-change-impacts-on-smallislands.html.
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Infrastructure Sector
Potential Primary Impacts Wind induced damage Inadequate rainfall or recharge of groundwater Design capacity exceeded leading to failure Increased salinity of groundwater Increased evaporation from storage Design capacity exceeded leading to failure Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation or sub-structure failure Flooding and pollution of water supply Corrosion of pipelines due to saltwater intrusion
Potential Secondary Impacts Decreased water quality Decreased water quantity and availability Increased maintenance and repair costs Increased costs for alternative means of water supply Accelerated deterioration of assets Increased cost of water supply Health impacts Outages to water supply leading to disruption to economic activity and provision of social services Increased maintenance and repair costs Increased costs for alternative means of water supply Accelerated deterioration of assets Increased cost of wastewater treatment Marine ecosystem effects of water pollution (social, economic, and ecological)
Cyclone / storm frequency or intensity Drought Extreme heat Rainfall intensity Sea level rise
Wastewater management
Cyclone / storm frequency or intensity Rainfall intensity Sea level rise Higher temperatures Drought
Wind induced damage Flooding and pollution of water supply Design capacity exceeded leading to failure Changes to biological treatment parameters Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation or sub-structure failure
Flooding leading to leachate escape and pollution Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation, liner or sub-structure failure Coastal erosion Breaching of close and/or rehabilitated landfill sites Increased rate of vermin reproduction Wind or wave damage from cyclones or storm surge Deterioration/corrosion of underwater concrete structures from wave action chemical action Blockages of shipping lanes due to increased siltation Flooding induced damage to pavement, embankments and drainage structures Wind or water flow induced damage to bridges or culverts Coastal erosion Changes to water table or soil moisture leading to foundation or sub-structure failure
Increased maintenance and repair costs Accelerated deterioration of assets Water and land pollution effects on surrounding land use, marine ecosystems, and public health
Cyclone / storm frequency or intensity Sea level rise Ocean acidification Rainfall intensity Drought
Increased maintenance and repair costs Accelerated deterioration of assets Increased frequency of closures / disruptions to service leading to disruption to economic activity and accessibility to social services
The RRA indicates that in the short-term cyclones and storm surge are potentially the most damaging climate manifestations across all economic infrastructure sectors (Figure D.3). The risks are greatest in the energy and ports sectors, with fuel storage facilities, overhead transmission lines and outer island ports infrastructure particularly at risk. In the long-term, cyclones and storm surge remain the most potentially damaging events, but tsunami and earthquake damage are also identified as events with potentially high risk for economic infrastructure. These latter events have a lower likelihood of occurring but could cause severe impacts (Figure D.4). The risks remain highest in the energy and ports sectors, and for overhead transmission lines, energy generation infrastructure, fuel storage, and outer island port infrastructure. Sea level rise, although having a high likelihood of occurring in the future, is considered to be of lower risk than cyclones, storm surge and non-climate related natural disasters in both the short and long term. The relatively gradual and predictable nature of this climate manifestation will allow the severity of impacts to be progressively managed. The sector-level risks associated with the remaining identified climate manifestations, increased rainfall intensity, drought, higher air temperatures and ocean acidification, are considered likely to be lower in both the short and long term.
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Figure D.3: Relative climate and natural disaster risk by sector and event type (short-term: 0 10 years)
Figure D.4: Relative climate and natural disaster risk by sector and event type (long-term: 10 50 years)
Risks in this sector are exacerbated by the potential for adverse effects on movements of freight and passengers if infrastructure is non-operational. Ocean transport is the main means of carriage between islands. Damage to infrastructure that reduces accessibility would have a range of economic and social implications such as disruptions to economic activity, reduced access to social services, and could hamper natural disaster response efforts. LAND TRANSPORT At a sector level, land transport infrastructure, notably roads, is considered to be at medium-to-high risk from climate change and natural disasters in both the short and long term. The highest levels of risk are confined to those sections of the network located in low-lying and/or coastal zones. Flooding and associated damage to pavements and drainage structures on low-lying coastal roads as a result of storm surge or wave action during cyclones is considered to be the most potentially damaging; these not only cause flooding and damage to infrastructure, but create obstacles to the evacuation of affected populations and the planning and implementation of disaster responses. Coastal erosion from rises in sea level, which is already evident along unprotected sections of low-elevation roads such as those running from Foui to Ahau and from Nukuleka to Manuka on Tongatapu, is also considered to be a high risk to infrastructure in affected locations. As noted, the gradual and relatively predictable nature of this impact limits its overall risk rating. The lower risk rating for this sector compared to the energy and ports infrastructure sector reflects the fact that the entire network would not face the same level of risk, and the lesser duration of impacts linked to flooding or overtopping of road infrastructure. TELECOMMUNICATIONS Telecommunications infrastructure, in the form of telephone and radio communications towers and fibre optic cabling, is at medium risk from climate change and natural disasters. Wind induced damage during cyclones is expected to be the most potentially damaging impact. At a network level, the relatively dispersed nature of infrastructure and its relatively young age contributes to the overall risk rating. However, certain pieces of infrastructure, notably communications infrastructure linked to disaster warnings and the coordination of response efforts and communications infrastructure on outer islands is individually at high risk. Fibre optic cabling is at low risk in locations where it is underground, although any sections to be installed above ground would have a high risk rating comparable to that of overhead energy transmission lines. COASTAL PROTECTION For the purposes of this analysis, coastal protection infrastructure includes seawalls or other types of foreshore protection. Such infrastructure is considered to be at medium risk from climate change and natural disasters in both the short and long term. This risk rating is largely influenced by the potential impacts of wave and wind induced damage to foreshore protection infrastructure during cyclones or storm surge. The temporary or permanent failure of such infrastructure could produce adverse effects on other infrastructure types including roads and groundwater supply in the outer islands. The risk is higher in the long term due to the higher likelihood of intense cyclone events, storm surge, and tsunamis. AIRPORTS Airport infrastructure, including runways, control towers, meteorological equipment, and related infrastructure, is considered to be at low-to-medium risk from climate change and natural disasters. The main national airport is located on relatively high elevation land (+38m ASL) in the south-eastern part of Tongatapu. The main risk to airport infrastructure is associated with wind damage to the control tower and meteorological equipment and office buildings during a cyclone event. The risk is exacerbated by the important role that this infrastructure could play in the event of a natural disaster by allowing international air access to Tonga, and by providing meteorological information to inform disaster response efforts. WATER SUPPLY The overall sector level risk for water supply infrastructure is low-to-medium in the short and long term. This risk rating is highly influenced by the inland location of the major groundwater well-field in Tongatapu and its location on high elevation land in Tongatapu. In its current configuration, it is unlikely that this water supply that services the majority of the Tongan population would b be affected by saline intrusion due to sea level rise, or wave action during cyclones or storm surge. However, the lower sector level risk assessment for water supply infrastructure masks potentially significant local risks to groundwater supplies on outer islands, or in coastal areas in Tongatapu or Lifuka Island. Sea level risk and heightened storm surge activity would present a high risk to the viability of these water supplies.
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SOLID WASTE AND WASTEWATER The overall sector level risk for waste management, including both solid and liquid waste, is low-to-medium. The solid waste facility in Tongatapu has recently been constructed inland at a relatively elevated location on Tongatapu, and is an engineered facility. There is a minimal risk of damage from climate change or natural disasters other than temporary flooding from increased rainfall intensity, or a low risk of damage from earthquake. The former landfill site in Tongatapu is located in the low-lying coastal zone and the site was rehabilitated in 2007. Given the location of this facility, and the fact that it was un-engineered (i.e. without lining or other protection measures), it would have been at high risk of adverse impacts from flooding due to storm surge, tsunami, or increased rainfall intensity. However, given the extensive rehabilitation work and ongoing groundwater and leachate monitoring, the risk of breaching of this site is low. Wastewater collection and treatment throughout Tonga is by way of septic tanks. In coastal areas there is a risk that the infiltration of septic tanks by rainfall or seawater could occur; however, such impacts would be confined to the coastal zone and would not increase the sector level risk assessment.
Rapid analysis of spatial patterns of relative climate and natural disaster risk
Understanding climate risk in Tonga can be enhanced by overlaying spatial patterns of risk atop considerations of sector level risk. Detailed risk mapping is underway for Tongatapu and Haapai based on detailed elevation data and models of future projected sea level rise and tsunami risk. This mapping was unavailable at the time of report preparation, therefore a qualitative rapid analysis of the broad spatial patterns of risk was conducted to inform analyses for NIIP2013. A definition of vulnerability as a function of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity, and knowledge of the main drivers of vulnerability in Tonga, established the following rapid assessment criteria for determining spatial patterns of relative climate and natural disaster risk in Tonga: Exposure: exposure to SLR and tsunamis; Sensitivity: population density; and Adaptive capacity: physical isolation and ease of access to information.
Through the application of these criteria, the following areas (described in no particular order) with the highest levels of climate and natural disaster risk were identified: North-eastern coastal zone of Tongatapu, including the Nukualofa CBD: identified because of high exposure to tsunamis and sea level rise, and high population density. Low lying islands of Haapai including Lifuka Island: identified because of high exposure to sea level rise, and presumably tsunamis, relatively high physical isolation, and low ease of access to information. The Niuas: identified because of exposure to tsunamis, very high physical isolation, and relatively low ease of access to information.
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decision support tools, which relates to knowledge and information availability; governance framework, including legislation, institutions, and policies; and financing for DRM and CCA, including external assistance and support.
Government framework
The national climate change policy and the JNAP have received high-level Government support, with the JNAP in particular representing a major step forward in the identification and documentation of the countrys DRM and CCA priorities. Efforts are now needed to ensure translation of the JNAP policies and actions into sectoral policy, legislation, and work programs. The integration of DRM and CCA issues into the NIIP2013 has the potential to act as a pilot project for other sectors in this regard. The Emergency Management Act 2007 establishes the institutional and organisational framework for DRM activities, with a focus on response activities, but does not address CCA. The environmental impact assessment (EIA) legislation makes very limited reference to DRM and CCA issues. There is thus no clear legal framework or entry point for CCA that obliges proponents to assess the interaction of infrastructure with climate or natural disasters, or to identify and implement appropriate resilience building measures. Technical capacity within Government in relation to CCA and DRM is limited to a relatively small number of personnel within the JNAP Secretariat, NEMO, and TMS. Specific skills and decision support tools to support climate risk analysis and resilience building for large-scale economic infrastructure are lacking, as much of the focus of capacity building to date has been on smaller scale community level infrastructure adaptation. Staff members require more comprehensive and targeted skills so they can act as focal points for CCA and DRM issues throughout the whole of 21 Government. Line ministries, civil society, the private sector (including Public Enterprises who are responsible for the operation of a large proportion of economic infrastructure in Tonga), local consultants, and professional organisations such as the Institution of Professional Engineers for Tonga, generally have limited knowledge on CCA or DRM analysis methods or in the development of responses to protect infrastructure. There is however a strong interest in the issue and an understanding of the types of risks that could be posed. Little technical or material capacity exists for CCA or DRM on the outer islands, despite the DRM responsibilities of outer island authorities for natural disasters.
Pacific Climate Change Science Program (PCCSP), Climate Change in the Pacific: Scientific Assessment and New Research , Volume 2 Country Reports: Chapter 14 Tonga (2011). Asian Development Bank, Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga (2012) presents a more detailed assessment of the specific capacity building needs across sectors. 22 Asian Development Bank, Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga.
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building, and institutional reform) or community level adaptation works. To date, there has been no significant investment support for infrastructure resilience building in Tonga. The recently secured contribution of approximately T$1.1 million from the EU-led Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) to contribute to the construction of foreshore protection in north-eastern Tongatapu is one of the first such operations. The most significant donors in the DRM and CCA domain over the last five years have been the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Global Environment Facility (GEF), Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), with the Gesselschaft fr International Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) also responsible 23 for financing and/or implementation of programs. Much of this support has been channelled through regional initiatives coordinated by the Secretariat for the Pacific Community (SPC)/Applied Geoscience and Technology Division of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SOPAC) or the South Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP).
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Asian Development Bank, Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga presents a detailed stocktaking of past and present DRM and CCA projects in Tonga.
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Table D.5: General climate-proofing measures for economic infrastructure projects Detailed climate risk analysis to feed into site selection and project design Application of climateproofed design and construction codes and materials selection codes (such codes would be developed as part of enabling environment activities included in the NIIP2013) Adaptive and flexible operating regimes including contingency plans Adaptive and flexible maintenance regimes including contingency plans for example increased frequency of maintenance e.g. road clearing prior to rainy season Adaptive and flexible monitoring of asset condition and adaptive management approaches e.g. pre-wet season, and post-disaster and post-wet season checks of infrastructure.
In addition to these general measures, more comprehensive and project specific resilience building measures were defined for a sub-set of projects on the long-list. The choice of projects for these measures was based on the results of the risk assessment and focused on projects in high-risk infrastructure sectors or locations. The modified projects are described below: Project P9 Maritime sector safety and resilience: in its original form this project included the upgrading and rehabilitation of existing outer islands ports on Haapai, Vavau, Eua , and Niuas to improve safety and reliability. Outer island ports were identified as being at high climate and natural disaster risk and the original project was modified to include retrofitted resilience building measures as a major component of the project. Project W3 Outer islands water supply improvements: in its original form this project included the rehabilitation and extension of the water supply infrastructure on the outer islands. While at the sector level, water supply was not considered to be at high risk from climate change or natural disasters, the assessment identified that water supply systems on the outer islands that relied on groundwater were at high risk because of the effects of sea level rise and storm surge on salinity levels. It was therefore considered suitable to include comprehensive resilience building measures in the project. Project T10 Communications for early warning and disaster recovery: given the importance of the AM radio network for cyclone early warning and post-disaster recovery, this project was developed by identifying the essential elements of a number of activities suggested by the Tonga Broadcasting Corporation and includes: (i) the construction of an AM radio tower on Vavau to improve operational reliability of the AM radio network both for Tongatapu and the outer islands; and (ii) the relocation and climate-proofing of the central AM radio broadcasting facilities in Tonga.
increase community resilience on Lifuka Island, particularly to address severe coastal erosion on the western side of the island.
D.5: Costs of DRM and CCA resilience building measures in longlist projects
The projects in the NIIP2013 are mostly at the concept stage of development. Project level budget estimates that have been developed are indicative with a relatively large margin of error. It was not possible to develop detailed project specific cost estimates for the identified DRM and CCA measures, or to carry out cost/benefit analyses of these measures. The additional cost implications of incorporating climate-proofing measures into long-listed projects were estimated in broad terms in collaboration with infrastructure specialists in the project team and have been included in the project budget estimates. The incremental cost implications of DRM and CCA measures were generally within the margin of error in project budget estimates. Climate-proofing of new or replacement infrastructure is generally considered to be more cost effective than retrofitting existing infrastructure during upgrading works. The average costs of climate proofing new or replacement infrastructure (expressed as a percentage of total capital costs) are 1.4 per cent for the East Asia and Pacific Region, 24 and 0.8 per cent for all lower-middle income countries. Costs are however strongly project specific both for new 25 infrastructure and for retrofitting works, and it is difficult to generalise across sectors or within countries. Detailed costs of climate proofing needs for NIIP2013 projects will be developed during future stages of project development.
D.6: CCA and DRM issues associated with priority projects in the NIIP2013
The NIIP2013 long-list of projects was screened and ranked using a multi-criterion analysis (MCA) process as described in Annex C. The list of high and medium priority projects to emerge from this process is reproduced in Table D.6. Two key themes emerged in the list of priority projects that have relevance in the discussion of CCA/DRM issues. Climate and natural disaster resilience is a major component of four of the thirteen high priority projects, and two of the nine medium priority projects. Additionally, infrastructure development in the outer islands is the focus of eight of the thirteen high priority projects, and three of the medium priority projects. Because of their physical isolation, the outer island groups, specifically Haapai and the Niuas, are amongst the most vulnerable regions of Tonga despite their low population densities. Even those projects that do not have a specific CCA/DRM focus will contribute to reducing the overall vulnerability of the outer islands communities.
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G Hughes, P Chinowsky and K Strezpek, The Costs of Adapting to Climate Change for Infrastructure, Economics of Adaptation to Climate Change World Bank Discussion Paper No. 2 (2010). See for example M Parry et. al., Assessing the Costs of Adaptation to Climate Change: A Review of the UNFCCC and Other Recent Estimates, International Institute for Environment and Development and the Grantham Institute for Climate Change (2009).
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Table D.6: Results of the NIIP2013 project prioritisation process Project No. Project Name Indicative Budget (T$ million)
High-Priority Projects E11 E16 T9 T10 W3 W4 S6 R10 P9 A11 A12 M2 M4 Solar generation (Tongatapu Additional 1-2 MW) Outer Islands On-Grid Renewable Energy Project Fibre-Optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau etc Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands water supply improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) Expand Nukualofa water supply system to growth areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, taxiway Control Tower for Fuaamotu Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure 24.0 9.0 30.0 6.0 15.0 11.4 4.0 10.0 20.0 9.0 7.0 15.0 12.0
Medium Priority Projects E9 S1 R11 P11 P16 A7 A9 M3 M5 Upgrade Bulk Fuel Facilities (Tank Farm, Bunkering) Additional capacity for septage treatment Tongatapu Trunk Roads Program Upgrade of the Queen Salote Domestic Wharf Nafanua ('Eua) Port Upgrade Additional Fire Tender (Vavau) Expand apron and new taxiways at Fuaamotu Western Tongatapu Resilience Ha'apai Community Resilience 30.0 3.0 16.0 9.0 3.0 2.0 25.0 20.0 12.0
For each of the high and medium priority projects, including DRM and CCA projects, this section documents: the DRM and/or CCA function of the project (if any); and the resilience of the project to climate change and natural disasters including the additional resilience building measures that would be integrated into the project to address risks and optimise the CCA or DRM function.
The majority of projects are at the pre-concept or concept stage. A fine-scale climate, natural disaster risk analysis, and concept design for resilience building measures would need to be carried out for individual projects.
have low resilience to climate and natural disasters; particularly wind damage from storms and cyclones. A degree of resilience could be built into the project through the structural reinforcement of these elements to the extent possible, but a degree of residual vulnerability will remain. Emphasis should be placed on operational procedures that facilitate a rapid switch to alternative sources of energy supply in the event of a natural disaster. Project T9 - Fibre-optic cable to Haapai, Vavau: the DRM and CCA function of the project is high . It would significantly improve the resilience of communications links to the outer islands thereby increasing, amongst other things, access to information on climate and weather conditions, including extreme events. It would facilitate predisaster planning and alerts, and post-disaster response efforts. The project resilience is medium-to-high. The likelihood of an earthquake or tsunami of a magnitude likely to damage the cable is low, although the consequences could be severe if such an event did occur. The cable would be designed and laid in line with international standards that optimise its physical resilience to the marine environment. Measures to minimise impacts on coral reefs not only protect marine biodiversity, but also safeguard the coastal protection function of coral reefs. Potential measures could include the selection of cable route to optimise natural gaps in the reef, minimise the area of reef traversed or severing of habitat, laying of the cable through less sensitive reef areas, use of horizontal directional drilling, or anchoring of cables close to reef areas to avoid cable movement. The landing station would require the incorporation of design measures to ensure its resistance to flooding and cyclone impacts, such as those incorporated in the Tongatapu landing station. Project T10 - Communications for early warning and disaster recovery: the DRM and CCA function of this project is high. AM radio provides a critical communications link in times of extreme weather events and natural disasters, and is the official means of broadcasting cyclone warnings. It is particularly important for outer islands communities where Internet and mobile phone coverage is more limited. The resilience of the project to climate and natural disasters is high. The project would increase the resilience of the central Tonga Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) control centre on Tongatapu to flood and wind damage. thereby optimising its ability to operate during and after cyclone events. The project would also provide a new AM radio tower on Vavau that would be constructed to withstand projected wind loads during future cyclone events. This new tower would enhance the reliability of services to Vavau and the Niuas and increase overall network reliability should the existing AM radio tower in Tongatapu suffer damage. Project W3 - Outer islands water supply improvements (Vava'u, Ha'apai, 'Eua): the DRM and CCA function of the project is high. Groundwater supplies in Haapai in particular are already being affected by rising s ea levels and storm surge. Similar effects could occur to coastal groundwater supplies in the other islands. Project resilience is medium-tohigh. Through the integration of climate-proofing measures for water supply infrastructure, increased security and quality of supply will be provided for outer islands communities. Measures could include the relocation of water storages outside storm surge and sea level rise zones, replacement of household and village concrete water tanks damaged by earthquakes with more resilient models to foster use of rainwater harvesting as a secondary water source, and relocation where possible of corroded pipes or pipes located in saline intrusion areas or replacement with suitable anti-corrosive materials. Further analysis of the future evolution of groundwater capacity and quality under different climate change scenarios would support project development. Project W4 - Expand Nuku'alofa system to growth areas: the DRM and CCA function of the project is low-to-medium. Households that currently rely on individual wells and rainwater will have a more secure supply. The resilience of the project to climate and natural disasters is high and does not require the integration of specific resilience building measures. The project will be located in relatively elevated areas of Tongatapu and the undergrounded infrastructure will not be at risk of storm surge, sea level rise, or cyclones. Project S6 - New landfill or transfer station on Haapai: the DRM and CCA function of the project is low-to-medium. The project would reduce additional stresses on climate-affected groundwater supplies and coastal ecosystems by improving environmental management of solid waste. If the option for a new landfill is selected, its resilience will be largely influenced by the site selection process, namely the ability to develop the project outside of tsunami; storm surge or sea level rise risk zones. Climate risk mapping that is proposed to be carried out for Lifuka will be an invaluable tool in this regard. The landfill drainage and runoff systems will need to be designed to cater for future projected rainfall intensity. Project R10 - Outer islands roads upgrading program: the DRM and CCA function of this project is medium-to-high at a project level due to increased accessibility for vulnerable outer island communities, and high to very high for
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individual elements of the project that could serve as evacuation routes in times of natural disaster, or could be developed to incorporate a coastal protection function. To enhance the DRM and CCA function of the overall project, priority could be given to upgrading of those elements of the road network that could fulfil such functions. A high degree of resilience could be integrated into the project through the adoption of climate-proofing measures at the design, construction, and operation stages of the infrastructure. Design of road cross-sections and drainage structures should cater for projected future rainfall, projected sea levels and coastal erosion rates, flood and storm surge, and to allow egress of floodwaters to avoid ponding of water. Selection of pavement materials should be suitable for expected maximum air temperatures. Maintenance regimes should be adapted as necessary to include pre-wet season clearing and rehabilitation of drains, regular post-cyclone or storm monitoring, and procedures for rapid postcyclone or storm emergency rehabilitation works. Project P9 - Maritime sector safety and resilience: the DRM and CCA function of this project is high. The outer islands ports that are included in this project are critical for passenger and freight transport between islands. The project has been developed to improve the resilience of these ports to future climate change and natural disasters, as well as advance overall port safety. Once implemented, the resilience of the ports to climate change and natural disasters would be high. Resilience building measures incorporated in the project could include elevation of wharves, strengthening and reinforcement of structures, investigation of the need to reconfigure structures to prevent or reduce downstream coastal erosion and encourage sand replenishment, and treatment of underwater structures to minimise physical and chemical corrosion. Project A11 - Resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, and taxiway: the DRM and CCA function of the projects is high. While airports do not account for a large proportion of passenger or freight traffic between the islands, they are of importance for urgent freight and passenger movements for example, in the event of a natural disaster, or access during times when ocean carriage is not possible. If this project is not carried out, the airport will be restricted to light aircraft movements and eventually close (as it will no longer comply with civil aviation safety standards) resulting in increased isolation of Haapai. Lifuka is a low elevation island, but Salote Pilolevu Airport is located at 9m AMSL and more than 100m from the shoreline. The main risk to the project would arise from a relatively low likelihood, but high consequence tsunami or earthquake event. The DRM and CCA function of the project is high. Resilience building measures can be built into this project through the choice of suitable pavement materials to cater to prevailing temperatures, and adequately sized drainage to cater to projected future rainfall intensity. Project A12 - Control tower for Fua'amotu: the DRM and CCA function of this project is medium and is related to the incremental improvement in aircraft safety and capacity that would occur during a disaster relief operation. The airport is located on relatively elevated ground in the southeast of Tongatapu and is not within a tsunami risk zone. Cyclone wind damage poses the most substantial potential risk to this project and resilience will be accommodated through the adoption of suitable wind design loads. Project M2: Eastern Tongatapu coastal protection project: the DRM and CCA function of this project is very high. This project involves the rehabilitation and construction of foreshore protection structures along an approximately 7.9km section of the north-eastern coast of Tongatapu between Nukuleka and Manuka. This area contains six coastal villages with housing and road infrastructure located in close proximity to the shoreline. Coastal erosion from rising sea level and storm surge is evident along the entire coastline and is threatening to undermine houses and road infrastructure. In some sections, seawalls had previously been constructed but a lack of maintenance had resulted in their deterioration after storm events, and due to ongoing sea level encroachment. Resilience of the project, and thus optimisation of its DRM and CCA, will be achieved through the use of appropriate foreshore designs based on hydrological analyses. It will be necessary to ensure that adverse effects on coastline adjacent to foreshore protection (i.e. through a displacement of wave energy from seawalls to unprotected sections of coastline) are avoided. Project M4 - Disaster response and evacuation infrastructure project: the DRM and CCA function of this project is very high. This project involves a range of infrastructure to support disaster response coordination and capacity, and to support community evacuation prior to natural disaster events. The NEMO, Tonga Meteorological Office (TMO), and the seismic unit of the Geology Department have important roles to play prior to, during and following natural disasters. The disaster response command centre and disaster response equipment storage is located in the Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) complex in Nukualofa which is in a tsunami risk zone. The Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) is located at Fuaamotu Airport but their offices are of poor quality. Communication between these agencies is via mobile telephone and high frequency radio; both of which are subject to disruption during major natural disasters. The project would entail the construction of a joint, climate-proof disaster command centre where the TMS and
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disaster response equipment storage could be based permanently, and where all disaster response agencies could 26 operate in the event of a natural disaster. The project would include the connection of this facility to the underground fibre-optic cable that is currently being developed throughout Nukualofa. This project would also support the infrastructure required to aid the implementation of the Tongatapu Tsunami Evacuation Plan currently under preparation. This infrastructure would include road upgrading to allow rapid egress from high-risk zones, installation of signage and sirens, and the construction of evacuation shelters in tsunami safety zones which are provisionally identified at Mount Siame in the main urban area, the elevated land near the New Zealand High Commission and the Nukualofa well-field. The project does not include the construction of a crossing of the Fungauta Lagoon that was considered separately in the NIIP process but not retained in the list of priority projects.
26
The location of this centre would need to be defined during detailed project planning but Fuaamotu Airport has been identified as a suitable location given the nee d for TMS to manage the weather stations that are located there on a 24-hour basis.
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Project A7 - Additional fire tender (Vavau): the DRM and CCA function of this project is low and is related to the incremental capacity to combat fire at Vavau airport in the case of a natural disaster. There are no specific resilience building measures that need to be incorporated in this project. Project A9 - Expand apron and new taxiways at Fuaamotu : the DRM and CCA function of this project is medium and is related to the incremental improvement in aircraft safety and capacity that would occur during a disaster relief operation. The airport is located on relatively elevated ground in the southeast of Tongatapu and is not in a tsunami risk zone. Resilience would be built into the project through appropriately designed drainage structures and pavements to cater for future projected rainfall and temperatures. Project M3: Western Tongatapu resilient infrastructure project: the DRM and adaptation function of this project is very high. The JNAP Secretariat has been working with local communities to develop a resilience building project along the north-western coast of Tongatapu. The project involves the development of coastal protection structures with a mixture of hard foreshore protection infrastructure and mangrove rehabilitation along the north-western coast of Tongatapu. The project would extend approximately 16km from Kanokupolu to Muifonua Point. This section of coastline is already subject to coastal erosion that is affecting shoreline stability and road infrastructure in the western section. The project would also involve the rehabilitation and climate-proofing of village groundwater supplies that are being affected by sea level rise and storm surge. Measures would include the relocation of water storages outside of storm surge and sea level rise zones, the rehabilitation of household and village concrete water tanks damaged by earthquakes with more resilient models to foster use of rainwater harvesting as a secondary water source, and relocation where possible of corroded pipes or pipes located in saline intrusion areas or replacement with suitable anti-corrosive materials. Project M5: Haapai infrastructure resilience building project: the DRM and CCA function of this project is very high . Haapai is considered to be the most vulnerable of the outer island groups due primarily to its low elevation. The SPC led, AusAID funded Pacific Adaptation Strategy Assistance Program (PASAP) project has been working with communities on Haapai and the Government of Tonga to develop a package of works to increase community resilience on Lifuka Island, particularly to address the severe coastal erosion on the western side of the island. To date, a suite of infrastructure needs for Haapai have been identified through discussions with the PASAP team and the JNAP TWG and packaged into the Haapai Infrastructure Resilience Project for consideration in the NIIP2013. Infrastructure activities include: (i) opening the wharf structure at the port to encourage sand movement to the south of the wharf where severe coastal erosion is being experienced; (ii) sand replenishment activities and foreshore protection along an approximately 3km section of western coastline; (iii) relocation of the hospital that is at risk of being structurally undermined by coastal erosion; and (iv) the rehabilitation of water supply for households along the western coast of Lifuka to protect against saline intrusion and reduce reliance on the diminishing groundwater supply.
This section focuses on the first two areas of support, while financing issues are discussed in the next section. The priority actions listed in this section have been discussed with the JNAP TWG to ensure consistency with JNAP priorities and other planned or ongoing interventions.
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including weather radar stations, oceanic parameter monitoring equipment (e.g. sea surface temperature and tidal gauges), and upgraded terrestrial monitoring stations on the outer islands. Risk modelling and mapping: a priority will be to ensure the completion of tsunami risk modelling and mapping, and the development of storm surge and SLR risk modelling and mapping for Tongatapu and Haapai based on the recently completed Lidar elevation survey for these islands. Climate projections for Building Code and Road Design Standard revision: ongoing analyses and refinement to determine projected return periods for extreme events, including temperature, intense rainfall, extreme high tides, 27 and wind, will be required to feed into revision of the Building Code and Road Design Standard. The TMS and JNAP Secretariat are being trained by AusAID and CSIRO Australia in the application of the climate projection tool Pacific 28 Climate Futures that contribute to this process. Groundwater capacity analysis and measurement: there is currently little information on groundwater capacity on outer islands, yet groundwater resources are already subject to saline intrusion as a result of sea level rise and storm surge. Analysis of groundwater supply capacity and quality in coastal areas of Tongatapu and outer islands under different climate change scenarios will be required to contribute to water supply planning, and will directly support the development of Project W3 Outer islands water supply improvement. Linked to these activities, support will also be required to improve the implementation of the newly drafted groundwater management legislation that aims to prevent over-abstraction and better manage the groundwater resource.
Initial work on this issue is contained in John E Hay & Associates, Climate Risk Profile for Tonga. The PACCSAP is working with PCRAFI to better understand future tropical cyclone wind hazard risk for the Pacific region including at the national scale. The outputs of this work, which are expected in mid-2013, will assist in the development of building codes and design standards. 28 Pacific Climate Change Science Program, Current and Future Climate of Tonga (2011), www.pacificclimatechangescience.org.
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Revision of legal framework: priority actions for legislative improvement include the integration of DRM and CCA issues into legislation that regulates environmental approvals for infrastructure development (i.e. the Environmental Assessment Act 2003, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2010 and the Spatial Planning and Management Act 2012). The proposed revisions would focus on ensuring proponents and approving authorities for infrastructure projects systematically consider the climate and natural disaster risks that could operate on projects and the necessary adaptation and resilience building measures to be integrated in the project. Sector or issue specific legislation (including legislation relating to spatial planning and coastal protection) should be progressively reviewed and refined to make specific reference to climate and natural disaster risks. Guidelines on coastal protection and resilient water supply: there is evidence of communities and village authorities autonomously developing DRM and CCA responses to coastal erosion and saline infiltration to groundwater supplies, often without due consideration of the range of options available and the effects of such infrastructure on nearby villages. An additional priority in this category therefore relates to the development of user-friendly, non-technical guidelines on the development of foreshore protection and climate resilient rural water supply schemes.
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In recent years, the funding available for DRM and CCA activities has increased. Traditional donors are paying greater attention to the mainstreaming of climate issues in their operations and are providing enhanced support for targeted DRM and CCA activities, either through standalone financing or as an increment to traditional infrastructure or development financing. A number of new sources of funding that focus on CCA related interventions have also been created both at the national and international level. CCA SPECIFIC FUNDING SOURCES A range of potential financing sources are available: The Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) is a multi-donor source of financing, managed by the World Bank (WB). The framework for PPCR support in Tonga was approved in April 2012 with the endorsement of 29 the country specific Strategic Program for Climate Resilience (SPCR) by the Climate Investment Fund. A provisional budget of T$26 million (USD15 million) for PPCR implementation in Tonga was identified and an additional T$9 million (USD5 million) has since been earmarked for Tonga. The SPCR referred to support for hard and soft activities related to climate-proofing of infrastructure. Detailed project preparation in expected to commence in early 2013. Discussions with the team responsible for leading this exercise indicate that climate-proofing of infrastructure remains a priority theme of future PPCR support and reference will be made to the NIIP2013 in the identification of specific project interventions. The Adaptation Fund supports CCA projects in developing countries that are parties to the Kyoto Protocol. Since its commencement in 2010, it has approved around 25 projects with an average budget of T$11.6 million. Projects have typically included a community adaptation component and there are numerous examples of activities in coastal and island communities supported by the Fund. Pacific region countries including Fiji, the Cook Islands, and Solomon Islands have submitted successful projects to the Fund. The JNAP Secretariat proposes to target the Adaptation Fund to finance the Haapai Community Resilience Project. This funding strategy appears sound given the community-based adaptation nature of the project, its estimated budget of T$11.9 million, and its location is a sensitive coastal zone in a Pacific region s Small Island Developing States. The Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) is a global platform for knowledge exchange and financial support for climate change initiatives in developing countries. Tonga is already benefiting from support from this fund under the regional SPC led Pacific Small Island States program. Additional support could be sought from this fund for short-term (<1 month), targeted technical assistance activities to support implementation of DRM/CCA projects identified in the NIIP. The types of activities to be supported could include project formulation, policy development, technical advice, feasibility studies, or compliance with climate funding requirements. Future calls for proposals under other CCA or DRM focused funds such as the German International Climate Initiative (e.g. for foreshore protection works or water resource management works involving ecosystem based elements; median project financing T$1.5 million) or the ACP-EU Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (NDRR) Program (e.g. for institutional or minor investments works related to DRM capacity; project financing ranges generally from T$0.4 to 1.75 million) could be relevant to the priority activities contained in the NIIP2013 and will require monitoring. Many donors and funds are likely to give preference to regional initiatives and Tongas continued active involvement in regional forums on climate change issues will allow future regional opportunities to be identified. Evolution of the global Green Climate Fund will also require monitoring as this could become a significant source of adaptation funding in the medium term.
MULTILATERAL AND BILATERAL DONORS Climate change adaptation and disaster risk management activities are expected to remain high on the agenda of all multilateral and bilateral donors active in Tonga. The upcoming PPCR appears to be the main vehicle of support for future CCA initiatives by the ADB, WB, and AusAID. The JICA has indicated its willingness to consider CCA and DRM projects on a case-by-case basis and is now considering two projects T$11 million for the eastern Tongatapu coastal protection project and T$5.2 million for tsunami evacuation infrastructure. Based on the outcomes of discussions with the main donors in Tonga, the integration of climate and natural disaster resilience building measures in infrastructure development projects is expected to be looked upon favourably by donors, and in the future it may become a prerequisite for project financing. The integration of resilience building measures in NIIP2013 projects is therefore
29
Asian Development Bank, Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga.
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considered likely to aid in attracting project financing. Future discussions with donors could also explore the concept of climate change budget support to support cross-cutting DRM and CCA issues throughout a number of sectors. POST-DISASTER RESPONSE AND REHABILITATION FUNDING Contingency funds and insurance schemes are important for providing rapid access to finance for post-disaster response and rehabilitation. Tonga, with the support of the Japanese Government, is a pilot country in the WB led regional Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI) risk insurance scheme that would support post-disaster rehabilitation costs for infrastructure and other sectors. The Tonga National Emergency Fund, established in 2008 under the Emergency Act 2007, is a solely Government financed fund that aims to allow rapid access to financing in the event of a disaster. Strengthening the operation of the Tonga National Emergency Fund through the establishment of formal procedures and an independent Fund Board, would allow this fund to be used as a consolidated vehicle for donor contributions to post-disaster support, and would enhance harmonisation and coordination in the use of donor and Government funds in the event of a disaster.
Table D.7: DRM and CCA funding sources for Tonga Fund Name ACP-EU Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (NDRR) Program Previous and Current Financing to Tonga None to date. Feasibility to contribute to financing NIIP2013 priority project Potential source of funding for institutional strengthening and policy activities. Feasibility of accessing funds will depend on timing and priorities of future calls for proposals. Project financing generally of T$0.4 to 1.75 million. Eligible activities include institutional, community and infrastructure vulnerability reduction measures. Potential source of future financing for both climate proofing of infrastructure and enabling environment improvements. Average project financing T$11.6 million. Tongas current budgetary policy does not allow for any new loans from MDBs or other parties. Funding for new projects from ADB will therefore be restricted to grant funding. The PPCR PPTA and implementation is programmed in the ADBs Country Operations Business Plan for 2013 2015 and is likely to represent the major national level support for CCA in the near future. Scope for inclusion in future regional TA activities on climate change. AusAid is contributing to the PPCR program through the ICCAI; discussions with staff in Tonga indicate that while this is likely to be the main source of CCA funding for Tonga in the future one-off proposals for other activities included in the JNAP will be considered for financing. Tonga does not have a GCCA national programme. Future support possible through regional initiatives or customized short-term technical assistance. Established under auspices of UNFCCC as a major international adaptation fund but is not yet operational. Expected to be operational post 2020. CCA support is targeted towards ecosystem based adaptation measures but projects involving financing and insurance pilots, data management and water resources have also been financed. New projects are selected through a two-stage procedure that takes place once a year. Median financing envelope of T$3.4 million. JICA is currently considering proposals submitted by JNAP Secretariat for funding of the eastern Tongatapu coastal protection and part of the tsunami evacuation plan road infrastructure. A decision on these projects is expected in early 2013. JICA has indicated that it will seek to ensure that climate resilience is taken into account in future infrastructure investments. The Fund is available to fund post-disaster spending with the approval of Cabinet. The potential for this fund to be used as a vehicle for donor support to disaster relief activities could be investigated in the future subject to the development of procedures for fund use and establishment of a Board. Tonga is part of a two-year pilot regional risk insurance scheme. The Government of Japan is supporting the insurance scheme premium payment. Funds would be available to contribute to disaster relief in the event of a tsunami, earthquake or cyclone. Funding from the Pacific Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Program could be channelled through the national emergency fund if appropriate governance structures are put in place.
Adaptation Fund
None to date.
Participation in regional knowledge generation activities. Leading and contributing to PPCR grant.
Australian Aid
Participation in regional knowledge generation activities. Contributing to PPCR grant. SPC-GCCA Pacific Small Island States (regional) & GCCA Pacific Islands Forum support programme (regional) None Tonga is a partner country in the Pacific Mangrove Initiative that is being financed until 2013 by the ICI Germany Numerous projects including training and capacity building activities with TMS, rural DRM activities, earthquake observation assistance.
JICA
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Feasibility to contribute to financing NIIP2013 priority project The approved SPCR document (April, 2012) identifies climate proofing of infrastructure and improvements to the enabling environment for PPCR financing. Project preparation will commence in early 2013 and draw on findings of NIIP2013 to set priorities. Provisional budget of T$35 million (USD 20 million). Tongas current budgetary policy does not allow for any new loans from MDBs or other parties. Funding for new projects from WB will therefore be restricted to grant funding. Climate adaptation funding envisaged in current Country Assistance Strategy.
None to date.
World Bank
Although climate change mitigation is not a specific focus of this analysis, dedicated funding sources for mitigation projects (such as renewable energy) exist and could be targeted as sources of financing for relevant elements of NIIP implementation. Examples of these funding sources include Tongas GEF5 STAR allocation under the climate change focal area; the European Union Energy Development Fund (EDF) 10; the European Commissions Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF) for private-public partnerships; the multilateral Clean Technology Fund (a financing stream under the Climate Investment Fund); and bilateral programs which include renewable energy amongst their priorities for support in Tonga.
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References
Asian Development Bank, Climate Proofing: A Risk Based Approach to Adaptation. Asian Development Bank Pacific Studies Series. 2005. Asian Development Bank. Strategic Program for Climate Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga. 2012. de Bruin K, Dellink R & Agrawala S. Economic Aspects of Adaptation to Climate Change: Integrated Assessment Modelling of Adaptation Costs and Benefits . OECD Environment Working Paper No. 6. 2009. Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Preparing for a Changing Climate. 2011. Government of Tonga. Kingdom of Tongas Joint National Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management 2010 2015. 2010. Government of Tonga. National Strategic Planning Framework. 2010. Government of Tonga. National Progress Report on the Implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2011 2013. 2011. Hughes G, Chinowsky P & Strezpek K. The Costs of Adapting to Climate Change for Infrastructure. Economics of Adaptation to Climate Change World Bank Discussion Paper No. 2. 2010. John E Hay & Associates. Mainstreaming Environmental Considerations in Economic and Development Planning Processes in Selected Pacific Developing Member Countries: Climate Risk Profile for Tonga. Asian Development Bank Technical Assistance Consultants Report. 2008. Mimura, N. Vulnerability of island countries in the South Pacific to sea level rise and climate change, Climate Research 12, 1999. Ministry of Lands, Survey and Natural Resources (MLSNR). Pacific IWRM Project Results Note: Improvement and Sustainable Management of Neiafu, Vavaus Groundwater Resource. 2012. National Emergency Management Office (NEMO). Revised Initial Damage Assessment Report of the National Emergency Operations Committee on Tropical Cyclone Rene. 2010. Neumann J. Adaptation to Climate Change: Revisiting Infrastructure Norms. Resources for the Future Issue Brief 09-15. 2009. Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI). Country Risk Profile for Tonga. 2011. Pacific Climate Change Science Program (PCCSP). Climate Change in the Pacific: Scientific Assessment and New Research. Volume 2 Country Reports: Chapter 14 Tonga. 2011. Parry M, Arnell N, Berry P, Dodman D, Fankhauser S, Hope C, Kovats S, Nicholls R, Satterthwaite D, Tiffin R, Wheeler T. Assessing the Costs of Adaptation to Climate Change: A Review of the UNFCCC and Other Recent Estimates. International Institute for Environment and Development and Grantham Institute for Climate Change, 2009. Royal Academy of Engineers. Infrastructure Engineering and Climate Change Adaptation: Ensuring Services in an Uncertain Future. 2011. Tonga Meteorological Service. Climate Summary of Tonga. 2006. United Nations University, Institute for Environmental and Human Security. World Risk Report 2011. 2011.
World Bank. IDA / IFC Country Assistance Strategy to the Kingdom of Tonga FY 2011 - 2014 Report No. 56630-TO. 2010.
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Disposal/ Decommissioning
Construction/ Supply
Contract Supervision
All of these steps involve costs, such as: the cost of planning investigations, developing the design concept, and associated studies such as environmental impact assessments; the cost of preparing detailed designs and/or specifications, and the cost of preparing contract documentation; the nominal construction/supply cost of the infrastructure, plus allowance for contingencies and cost escalation over the supply period; the cost of supervising the contract (technical, financial, legal) to ensure that the work is done to the required standard and in compliance with contract requirements; the cost of operating the infrastructure over its useful life (such as labour, energy costs and consumables); the cost of maintaining the infrastructure over its entire operating life to keep it in good condition. This includes routine maintenance (small-scale activities undertaken regularly as general upkeep against normal wear and tear) and periodic maintenance (larger scale activities carried out at longer intervals to sustain the infrastructure condition or operational status); and the cost of disposal which can include the cost of decommissioning the asset, demolishing/removing it from the current location, and disposing of the waste. This can involve a range of environmental costs associated with disposal. The unused infrastructure should not be just left in place to decay and potentially pollute its surroundings.
In most cases, asset owners are well aware of the construction/supply cost of infrastructure and its ongoing operating costs (such as labour, energy costs and consumables), but are less aware of the extent and scale of other life-cycle costs. The total life cycle cost can be expressed as:
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Life Cycle Cost = [Concept Development & Planning] + [Detailed Design & Documentation] + [Construction/Supply including Escalation] + [Contract Supervision] + [Operating Cost] x [Asset Life] + [Routine/Periodic Maintenance] x [Asset Life] + [Disposal/Decommissioning Cost] Table E.1 shows an example of an infrastructure project with a nominal construction/supply cost of $100 (for ease of calculation) and an assumed operating life of 20 years. It shows some typical rules-of-thumb for the cost of life cycle components.
Table E.1: Indicative analysis of life cycle costs Stage Concept Development and Planning Detailed Design and Documentation Infrastructure Construction/Supply Contingency/Escalation Contract Supervision Operating Cost Maintenance Routine b Maintenance Periodic c Disposal/Decommissioning TOTAL 10% 2-5% variable 0-5% 5-10% variable $100 $120-130 $10-120 $0-100 $10-20 Rate a 2-5% 5-10% $100 Construct/ Supply Only + Other Up-front $2-5 $5-10 $100 $10 $2-5 20 Year Maintenance
Notes: a Based on typical infrastructure costing parameters, derived from literature review and consultation with infrastructure project management specialists. b Varies from minimal routine/periodic maintenance for buried infrastructure (such as water pipes) up to five per cent per year routine and 10 per cent periodic for gravel roads. c Based on 20 year asset life with periodic maintenance every seven years.
This calculation shows that other up-front costs can add 20-30 per cent to the nominal cost of the infrastructure. Over the life of the asset, the total cost of maintenance can be as high as the initial capital cost (depending on the type of infrastructure). In other words, the actual cost of owning the asset over its lifetime (excluding operating cost) can be double the initial quoted construction/supply cost. This has important planning and budgeting implications for ensuring that sufficient resources are available for the proper planning and design/specification of the infrastructure, and proper maintenance throughout the asset life. The relative size of these components will vary according to the details of the specific infrastructure, but as a general guideline, the following cost allowances should be included in infrastructure budgeting: 10-20 per cent up-front allowance for planning, detailed design and documentation, and contract supervision; 10 per cent contingency for physical changes to the infrastructure works/specification and cost escalation over the supply period. This is in addition to any contingency already included in the construction/supply cost estimate; and a recurrent allowance for maintenance equivalent to one to five per cent of the construction/supply cost for every year of the asset life (depending on the type of infrastructure). Maintenance requirements are discussed in more detail in the next section of this Annex.
Disposal costs are more problematic in terms of budgeting because the disposal/decommissioning may be 20 years or more into the future. However it is important to recognise that there may be significant costs associated with disposal, and as noted earlier, the unused infrastructure should not be just left in place to decay and potentially pollute its surroundings. Table E.2 provides rough estimates of the life cycle costs of the 13 high priority projects included in this NIIP. It is observable that while the estimated capital costs of these projects is T$172 million, the estimated life cycle costs
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drawing on the rules of thumb included in Table E.1, and allowing for 20 years of maintenance costs, totals some T$280 million (T$110 million more than the initial capital cost).
Table E.2: Estimated life cycle costs of NIIP2013 high priority projects (T$ million) Concept Planning & Detailed Design 0.9 2.4 3.0 0.6 1.5 1.1 0.4 1.0 2.0 0.9 0.7 1.2 1.5 17.2 Capital Cost 9.0 24.0 30.0 6.0 15.0 11.4 4.0 10.0 20.0 9.0 7.0 12.0 15.0 172.4 Supervision & Contingency/ Escalation 1.3 3.4 4.2 0.8 2.1 1.5 0.6 1.4 2.8 1.3 1.0 1.7 2.1 24.1 Annual Maintenance 0.2 0.7 0.2 0.1 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 3.4 Total 20year Life cycle 15.2 43.8 41.2 9.4 26.6 20.0 7.0 16.4 32.8 13.2 12.7 18.9 24.6 281.8
Sector
Projects Outer Islands On-grid Renewable Energy Project Solar Generation (Tongatapu - additional 1-2 MW) Fibre-optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) Expand Nukualofa Water System to Growth Areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Program Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu Total
Energy
Telecoms Water
Public enterprises
Public Enterprises are responsible for infrastructure management and service delivery in all areas of the economic infrastructure sector, except roads and outer island ports. Analysis of the level of spending by Public Enterprises on maintenance and infrastructure renewal is complicated by the way repairs and maintenance are recorded in the accounts. Several Public Enterprises have in-house staff dedicated to maintenance. This means that the accounts will tend to under-represent maintenance because much of the costs are recorded as salary costs. Table E.3 provides more detail of maintenance and capital-related spending based on the annual accounts of Public Enterprises. To provide an overall picture of infrastructure spending, it includes figures for infrastructure asset value, spending on repairs and maintenance, and acquisition of new plant and equipment. The Table also includes the ratio of the total amount spent on repairs, maintenance, and acquisition of new plant and equipment relative to the infrastructure asset base. This is a rough indicator of overall spending on expanding, renewing, and maintaining infrastructure relative to the total size of the infrastructure asset base.
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Table E.3: Public Enterprises maintenance and capital indicators (2011/12, T$ million) Sector Energy Agency Tonga Power Ltd Tonga Communications Corp. Telecoms Tonga Broadcasting Corporation Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Ltd Ports Authority of Tonga Transport Tonga Airports Ltd 34.6 0.1 Notes: 1 Average over the period 2008/9 to 2011/12, where data available. Infrastructure Asset Value 58.2 36.4 3.0 16.4 1.4 18.4 Repairs & Mtnce1 2.5 0.6 0.1 0.2 0.04 0.5 CAPEX1 4. 4 5. 5 0. 1 1. 7 0. 1 1. 4 2. 3 Maintenance + CAPEX1 7.0 6.1 0.2 1.8 0.1 1.9 2.5 Capital Sustain Ratio 12% 17% 6% 11% 10% 10% 7%
Water Waste
This analysis splits the Public Enterprises into three spending bands: High: this category contains two quite different businesses. The Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC) is in a fast changing business with private sector competition and must spend on infrastructure maintenance and renewal to keep pace with technology and remain competitive. Tonga Power Ltd (TPL) has inherited a rundown asset base but is successfully re-building the business and spending on infrastructure to rehabilitate the power supply system. Medium: this category contains two businesses (Tonga Airports Ltd (TAL), Ports Authority of Tonga (PAT)) that are alike in that their infrastructure is dominated by a small number of large fixed assets (runway, terminal, wharf), and much of their maintenance and capital spending is governed by the need to meet international safety and security standards; and one business (Tonga Water Board (TWB)) which is growing and strengthening in its role as a water utility. Low: this category contains two smaller businesses (Tonga Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) and Waste Authority Ltd (WAL)) for which spending on repairs, maintenance, and acquisition of new plant and equipment is low and potentially below sustainable levels.
The adequacy of spending on maintenance is explored further in Table E.4. This Table shows figures for infrastructure asset value, spending on maintenance, an estimate of the required level of sustainable maintenance spending for two scenarios (two per cent and four per cent of asset value), and an overall rating of the maintenance spending gap. The gap is rated Small if actual spending is within the suggested range; Medium if slightly below the two per cent scenario; and High if well below the two percent scenario. The required spending scenarios are based on the rules-of-thumb presented in Table E.1. For an individual item of infrastructure, recommended average annual spending on maintenance is in the range one to five per cent depending on the type of infrastructure, but for an organisation with a diverse infrastructure stock, this will tend to average out and reduce the range.
Table E.4: Public Enterprises comparison of maintenance needs and spending (2011/12, T$ million) Sector Energy Telecoms Tonga Broadcasting Water Waste Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Ltd Ports Authority of Tonga Transport Tonga Airports Limited
1
Infrastructure Asset Value 58.2 36.4 3.0 16.4 1.4 18.4 34.6
Notes: Average over the period 2008/9 to 2011/12, where data available.
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The analysis of the adequacy of current spending on maintenance again splits the Public Enterprises into three groups: Large Gap: it appears that these Public Enterprises (TWB, TAL) are not spending sufficient to keep pace with the backlog of required maintenance and as a result have a deteriorating infrastructure stock, although in the case of TAL, it is engaged in an infrastructure renewal process so it has large capital spending some of which is an alternative to maintenance of existing assets; Medium Gap: the Public Enterprise in this category (TCC) may not be spending sufficient on maintenance, possibly as a result of cost-cutting measures to address declining revenues; and Small Gap: these are Public Enterprises (TPL, TBC, WAL, PAT) that appear to be spending enough to maintain their infrastructure in good condition.
More detailed analysis of mechanisms for funding infrastructure, and an assessment of the overall financial strength of Public Enterprises, is provided in Annex F of this report. Based on a combined assessment that considered financial strength (see Annex F), historical spending on maintenance and capital (Tables E.3, E.4), and discussions with operators, an overall assessment has been made of the capacity of Public Enterprises to fund operations, maintenance and capital requirements from their own resources (Table E.5). The assessment rates the capacity of each Public Enterprise on a High/Medium/Low scale relative to its capital base, as follows: High: indicates a full capacity to self-fund without assistance; Medium: indicates a partial capacity, whereby the Public Enterprise can self-fund some needs but a backlog will gradually accumulate; and Low: indicates that the Public Enterprise is effectively unable to self-fund this activity.
Note that for each Public Enterprise, the CAPEX (capital expenditure) scale relates to a Small, Medium or Large individual investment relative to its asset base. A Small investment involves routine replacement/upgrading of small equipment and facilities; while a Large investment would involve replacement or major rehabilitation of the largest item of infrastructure that the Public Enterprise already owns (such as the airport runway), or the scale of investment required to transform the business (such as an undersea fibre-optic cable). Therefore the dollar value of each level of investment will vary across the range of Public Enterprises according to the type and size of infrastructure in its asset stock.
Table E.5: Analysis of capacity for self-funding infrastructure costs Sector Energy Agency Tonga Power Ltd Tonga Communications Corp Telecoms Tonga Broadcasting Corp Water Waste Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Ltd Ports Authority of Tonga Transport Tonga Airports Ltd Operations High High High High Medium High High Maintenance High High Medium High Low High High Small CAPEX High High Medium Medium Low High High Medium CAPEX High High Low Low Low High High Large CAPEX Medium Medium Low Low Low Low Low
The overall assessment of the capacity of Public Enterprises to self-fund infrastructure indicates that: TPL and the TCC are quite strong businesses with the capacity to fully self-fund all but the largest infrastructure projects. The TCC is experiencing some decline in revenues as a result of competition, and may need to move beyond internal financing to fund future investments. TAL and PAT are also financially stable and can generally fund small-medium infrastructure from their own resources. TALs financial results are affected by high depreciation expenses on its large asset base, and this limits its capacity to borrow. The challenge faced by these Public Enterprises is that they are custodians of
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some very large single items of infrastructure (airport runway, international wharf) that require infrequent but very expensive rehabilitation. The financial position of the TWB is improving, with strong growth in revenues due to improved collection. This gives the business the capacity to meet operating and maintenance costs and small capital expenditures, though actual expenditures on maintenance are lagging behind. The TBC can meet their operating costs and partially fund maintenance and small infrastructure projects, but does not have the financial strength to renew/upgrade medium-large infrastructure from their own resources. Waste Authority Ltd (WAL) requires a Government subsidy to meet its operating costs and remain cashflow positive. It has a low capacity to self-fund maintenance or infrastructure renewal. Revenue collection has been a problem, though arrangements to link billing with the TWB should result in improved performance.
Note that the current Government policy is not to intervene in the commercial operations of Public Enterprises. Generally this means that Government does not provide funding (operating or capital) support for Public Enterprises. The only exception is WAL, and in some cases, Government funds community service obligations (such as street lighting) that are delivered by Public Enterprises. These non-commercial services are explicitly identified in Public Enterprise statements of corporate intent and accounts.
Table E.6: Government budgetary provisions for maintenance (T$ 000) Sector Agency Item/Source Government - Maintenance Roads Roads Program, MOI - Capital Development partner contribution Total Government - Maintenance Ports Marine and Ports Services, MOI - Capital Development partner contribution Total Notes:
a
Provisional 2010/11
Revised 2011/12
Estimate 2012/13
38 0 8,283 8,321
77 0 25,046 25,123
23 0 4 27
38 0 1,654 1,692
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Overview
The overall picture regarding spending on infrastructure maintenance and renewal is mixed: Several Public Enterprises (TPL, TCC, PAT, TAL, and TWB) have the financial strength to fully fund routine maintenance and small-medium asset renewal from their own resources, though some of these (TAL and TWB) appear to be under-spending on maintenance. All of these Public Enterprises would struggle to selffund investments to replace or rehabilitate the largest item of infrastructure that the Public Enterprise already owns (such as the airport runway) or is required in order to transform the business (such as an undersea fibre-optic cable). TBC is breaking even financially, and its spending on maintenance is at a reasonable level. However, it does not have the financial capacity to renew assets and to keep pace with developments in technology. WAL cannot fully fund the cost of operations and maintenance from its own resources and requires a Government subsidy to remain financially viable. Government spending on maintenance and rehabilitation of roads and outer island ports has been patchy and below sustainable levels. A more systematic approach to asset management and a more reliable stream of funding for maintenance is required to break out of the boom-bust cycle. A proposal has been developed with TSCP technical support to introduce a Road Maintenance Fund as part of a drive to strengthen this function, but for outer islands ports, funding for ongoing maintenance is uncertain. New long-term arrangements need to be considered for sustainable funding of outer island port infrastructure maintenance and renewal.
Table E.7: Infrastructure maintenance rates (annual) Infrastructure lifespan Short Medium Long Type of infrastructure Fixed 3.0% 2.5% 2.0% Mobile 3.5% 3.0% 2.5%
Table E.8 applies these maintenance rates to calculate the annual maintenance expenditure requirements at the end of the first five years of the NIIP2013 (2017/18). Lower annual maintenance rates were used for investment in undersea fibre-optic cable (where a rate of 0.5 per cent was used) and overlaying of airport runways (where a rate of one per cent was used), given the nature of these assets. It is evident that T$3.3 million of the total annual requirement of T$14.0 million (or 24 per cent) relates to high priority proposed projects, with the balance relating to projects from the NIIP2010 now operational, and projects already underway or committed.
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Table E.8: Annual maintenance expenditure requirements at the end of 2017/18 Maintenance expenditure requirement 2017/18 (T$ million) 4.9 4.3 1.5 3.3 Total 14.0
Projects from NIIP2010 now operational Projects underway Committed projects High priority proposed projects
The total annual recurrent cost of sustainable maintenance after the fifth year of the NIIP2013 investment program would be around T$14.0 million: about 76 per cent (T$10.7 million) of this is for projects that are already operational, underway, or committed, and around 24 per cent (T$3.3 million) for high priority proposed projects; and 66 per cent (T$9.2 million) of maintenance costs accrue to Public Enterprises across a wide variety of projects, and the balance (T$4.8 million) to Government.
However, not all is new maintenance. Most of this recurrent maintenance cost relates to projects that upgrade existing infrastructure (52 per cent) and a further 16 per cent to projects involving the replacement or repair of existing assets. These projects that repair/replace/upgrade existing infrastructure may lead to a short-term decrease in required maintenance spending (assuming that the maintenance of the old infrastructure was funded). Projects that add new infrastructure to national stock would add around T$4.6 million in required annual maintenance funding. Table E.9 narrows the analysis down to new projects that are considered to be high priority for this NIIP (see Annex C). These projects have an estimated annual maintenance requirement of T$3.3 million. The Table also provides an assessment of the capability of responsible agencies to self-fund these maintenance requirements, based on the above analysis of the maintenance funding capacity of Public Enterprises and Ministries.
Table E.9: Estimated maintenance requirements of NIIP2013 high priority projects Sector Energy Projects Outer Islands On-grid Renewable Energy Project Solar Generation (Tongatapu - additional 1-2 MW) Fibre-optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) Expand Nukualofa Water System to Growth Areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Program Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu Total Capital Cost T$m 9 24 30 6 15 11 4 10 20 9 7 12 15 172 Est. Annual Mtnce T$m 0.23 0.72 0.15 0.12 0.38 0.29 0.10 0.20 0.40 0.09 0.18 0.24 0.30 3.38 Capacity to Self-Fund Mtnce High High High Low Medium Medium Low Low Medium High High Low Low
Telecoms
Multi-sector
The breakdown by sector and type of project is shown in Table E.10. About 37 per cent of the implied annual maintenance cost for high priority proposed projects (T$1.2 million) is for projects that upgrade/repair/rehabilitate existing infrastructure. These are not new maintenance liabilities and in some cases may lead to a reduction in required maintenance spending. Setting these projects aside, the high priority projects are estimated to add T$2.1 million to the national annual maintenance task.
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Table E.10: Estimated maintenance requirements of high priority NIIP projects at 2017/18 (T$ million) Sector Energy Telecoms Water Solid Waste Transport - Roads - Ports - Airports Multi-sector TOTAL 0.54 2.14 0.98 0.27 New Infrastructure 0.95 0.27 0.29 0.10 0.20 0.40 0.27 0.38 Upgrades Replacement / repair Total 0.95 0.27 0.66 0.10 0.20 0.40 0.27 0.54 3.38
Notes: Row and column totals may not add due to rounding.
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Capital investment
Capital expenditure on infrastructure projects over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 will be derived from four sources: projects that that were identified in the NIIP2010 and whose implementation is currently underway and will continue during the NIIP2013 timeframe; projects that that were identified in the NIIP2010 and have committed funding and will commence implementation during the NIIP2013 timeframe; high priority projects identified in this NIIP (see Chapter 3 and Annex C); and other smaller investments (mostly by Public Enterprises) that are part of their own investment programs and are not captured by the NIIP process. Based on current expenditure patterns (Annex E), this is estimated to total around T$8 million per year.
The contributions from these sources are summarised in Table F.1. If all of the NIIP2013 projects go ahead as planned, then total capital investment over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 is estimated at T$385 million. To put this level of investment in perspective, this is equivalent to an average annual level of investment over the period of around eight per cent of GDP.
Table F.1: Demand for capital expenditure 2013/14-2017/18 (T$ million) Capital expenditure 2013/14-2017/18 (T$ m) 100 73 172 40 385
NIIP 2010 Projects underway NIIP 2010 Committed projects High priority proposed projects Smaller self-funded projects Total
Complementary initiatives
Chapter 3 of this NIIP sets out a range of complementary measures (planning road maps; policy changes; institutional/regulatory/financial reforms; training and capacity building; technical assistance; etc) that support the implementation of the NIIP. At this stage, it is not possible to estimate the cost of these precisely, but Table F.2 lists each complementary activity by sector, together with an indication of what that activity might cost (see legend for explanation of cost indicator). In total it is anticipated that all the complementary activities, which mostly involve consulting services, might amount to T$15 million over the five year priority period covered by this NIIP.
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Table F.2: Estimated cost of complementary activities by sector Sector/ Affected Entities Energy (involving GoT and Tonga Power) Telecoms (involving GoT, TCC & TCL) Water (Involving GoT and the TWB) Solid Waste Waste Authority Roads Activities Policy, legal, regulatory reform supporting the Energy Roadmap Research and feasibility studies of alternative energy sources (wind, wave, coconut oil etc) Improved fuel supply chain logistics Other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap (DSM, TGIF etc) Update the access/regulatory regime for telecoms sector Private sector and Government initiatives (e-Government) that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access Prepare a Roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including sanitation and drainage. Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a 5-10 year investment plan Implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery (TSCP) Develop private sector capacity for road maintenance (TSCP) Update arrangements for managing and maintaining ports for inter-island shipping Maritime MoT/ Tonga Port Authority Upgrading and capacity development in maritime safety and pollution response Update/Upgrade maritime safety and pollution facilities; hydrographical charts etc. Post harvest facilities for fishing and agricultural produce - handling, storage, processing (initial support provided EU and Australian Aid) Upgrading and capacity development in aviation safety Update the policy environment for domestic aviation Post harvest facilities (initial support under EU Program) Institutional reform to clarify and simplify responsibilities across all sectors Mainstream CCA/DRM into infrastructure planning, design, standards and management Multi Sector Upgrade meteorological services and capability Strengthen EIA system and capacity Develop and implement a national policy and strategy for strategic asset management Improved arrangements for coordination of major projects with multi-sector implications Legend: 1 2 3 4 Expected to cost up to T$200,000 (all figures are in paanga) Expected to cost up to T$400,000 Expected to cost up to T$600,000 Expected to cost more than T$600,000 Cost Indicator 3 4 2 3 2 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 4 1 1 1
Maintenance
The requirements for expenditure on maintenance over the period 2013/14 to 2017/18 will come from three sources: maintenance of existing infrastructure, including investments from the NIIP2010 program that were already operational in 2011/12. This is estimated to total some T$10.5 million per year, including T$6.8 million on road maintenance (sustainable maintenance level from Road Fund calculations), around T$0.3 million on maintenance of outer islands ports (see Annex E), and around T$3.4 million by Public Enterprises at a minimum two per cent of asset value (Annex E); new maintenance requirements from NIIP2010 projects that are underway and committed. As explained in Annex E, many NIIP projects upgrade/repair/rehabilitate existing infrastructure and so do not produce new maintenance liabilities, and in some cases may lead to a reduction in required maintenance spending; and new maintenance requirements from high priority projects proposed by this NIIP (Annex E).
Table F.3 shows the annual maintenance expenditure requirements at the end of the first five years of this NIIP (2017/18), with a breakdown by project status and responsibility.
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Table F.3: Annual maintenance expenditure requirements at the end of 2017/18 (TS million) Government Pre-existing assets 1 NIIP investments (underway, committed) NIIP2013 high priority proposed investments TOTAL Notes: 1 including NIIP2010 assets operational in 2011/12 7.1 7.1 Public Enterprises 3.4 2.5 2.1 8.0 Total 10.5 2.5 2.1 15.1
Table F.4: Total demand for infrastructure finance (T$ million) 2013/14 Capital Investment NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority Other smaller items of capital expenditure Complementary initiatives NIIP2013 Maintenance Pre-existing assets NIIP2010 underway and committed NIIP2013 high priority TOTAL 10.5 0.5 0.3 142 10.5 2.5 0.8 136 10.5 2.5 1.5 92 10.5 2.5 2.0 58 10.5 2.5 2.1 41 52.5 10.4 6.7 470 3 3 3 3 3 15 104 16 8 49 62 8 7 60 8 8 24 8 5 10 8 173 172 40 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 Total
Table F.5: Central government fiscal operations (in % of GDP) 2009/10 actual 20.7 6.3 27.7 4.0 1.3 -6.0 3.6 2.5 2010/11 prelim. 20.2 6.9 23.7 7.8 1.5 -5.9 6.8 -0.9 2011/12 projection 18.8 7.2 21.2 5.8 1.6 -2.7 5.2 -2.5 2012/13 projection 19.0 11.6 25.5 4.5 -0.1 0.6 -0.3 -0.3 2013/14 projection 19.4 6.8 22.3 3.0 0.0 1.0 -0.8 -0.2 2014/15 projection 19.5 6.3 21.8 3.0 0.0 1.0 -0.8 -0.2 2015/16 projection 19.6 5.8 21.5 3.0 0.0 0.8 -0.2 -0.6
Revenue Cash grants Current expenditure Capital expenditure Net lending Overall balance External financing (net) Domestic financing (net)
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Table F.6 summarises the position of the Government budget over the last three years. It shows that current revenues including taxation have been static, as have expenditures on wages and salaries. There has been growth in other current expenditure (which can be important in maintaining standards of service delivery). Turning the budget around from a position of significant deficit to small surplus has been achieved mainly through a large reduction in capital expenditure (the high level of capital expenditure at the beginning of this period had been financed largely through concessional loans) and growth in budget support grants. The Budget Estimates for 2012/13 include T$22.5 million in budget support from Australia (T$9.0 million), New Zealand (T$2.5 million), the World Bank (WB) (T$8.5 million) and the European Union (T$2.5 million). The Asian Development Bank (ADB) had provided budget support in 2010/11. Australia, New Zealand, the WB, ADB, and the Government have negotiated a single policy matrix guiding budget support.
Table F.6: Government of Tonga budget (T$ million) 2010/11 actual Total revenues and grants Current revenue Capital revenue Grants (including budget support) Total expenditure Wages and salaries Other current expenditure Capital expenditure Lending minus repayments Surplus/Deficit 203.8 149.1 2.0 52.8 249.9 91.8 83.7 74.4 11.2 -57.3 2011/12 est. outturn 215.5 147.7 1.6 66.3 230.0 87.3 93.8 48.9 9.2 -23.7 2012/13 budget 217.8 147.0 2.3 68.5 216.1 90.0 111.4 14.7 0.5 1.2
Source: Government of Tonga Budget Statement for the year ending 30 June 2013, GFS presentation.
The most recent Debt Sustainability Assessment (DSA) undertaken jointly by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and WB in early 2012 concludes that Tonga remains at a high risk of debt distress. Table F.7 summarises Tongas public debt position including projections made in the course of the DSA. The rapid growth in public debt in 2008/9 and 2009/10 was associated with two loans from the China EXIM Bank for the reconstruction of Nukualofa and road improvements. Public sector debt is projected to remain above the Governments target ceiling of 40 per cent of GDP until 2013/14 and to decline thereafter (though the Governments budget statement for 2012/13 notes that public debt remains well above the lower target ceiling of 30 per cent of GDP recommended by the IMF). The DSA notes that scheduled repayments on the two loans from the China EXIM Bank may pose a fiscal challenge unless sufficient cash reserves are built up by improving tax collections and controlling current expenditure. The DSA also notes that Tongas remittance inflows, which are projected to average around 20 per cent of GDP in the medium term, may help mitigate liquidity risks and keep the debt profile manageable. However, that additional new debt in the short term will further worsen the already high risk of external debt distress.
Table F.7: Tonga public sector debt (in % of GDP) 2008/9 actual Public sector debt1 Annual change In foreign Currency 39.3 8.0 31.7 2009/10 actual 41.2 1.9 32.8 2010/11 actual 41.8 0.7 36.3 2011/12 projection 45.4 3.5 40.8 2012/13 projection 43.6 -1.8 39.4 2013/14 projection 40.0 -3.6 36.2 2014/15 projection 37.5 -2.5 34.0 2015/16 projection 35.7 -1.8 32.4
Notes: 1 Data cover the gross debt of general government and non-financial public enterprises. Source: IMF, Tonga 2012 Article IV Consultation Debt Sustainability Analysis
A further breakdown of the public debt position is provided in Table F.8, which summarises the current level of public sector debt (which grew to T$353.1 million by the end of 2011/12), with 59 per cent of debt accounted for by bilateral
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loans and 64 per cent of external debt denominated in Chinese Yuan (resulting in significant foreign exchange risk as this currency has been appreciating and is likely to continue on this path).
Table F.8: Tonga public sector debt (in % of GDP) 30 June 2011 actual 304.3 29.5 274.9 122.0 150.9 2.0 54.9% 44.2% 30 June 2012 actual 353.1 29.5 323.6 115.1 206.7 1.9 63.9% 35.4%
Public sector debt Domestic External Multilateral Bilateral Commercial External debt in Chinese Yuan External debt in SDR
Source: Government of Tonga Budget Statement for the year ending 30 June 2013.
This summary of the fiscal and public debt position of the Government supports the conclusion that little reliance can be placed on domestic revenues or public borrowing to finance investment in infrastructure over the course of this NIIP.
Public Enterprise Tonga Power Limited (TPL) Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC) subsidiary: Tonga Cable Limited (TCL) Tonga Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) Tonga Water Board (TWB) Waste Authority Limited (WAL) Ports Authority of Tonga (PAT) Tonga Airports Limited (TAL)
The financial performance of these Public Enterprises is summarised in Table F.9. Results for 2011/12 are presented, though it is noted that for most enterprises the financial statements for 2011/12 are yet to be audited. Performance varies, with a range from quite small enterprises with limited financial strength, to large and profitable enterprises with significant financial capacity.
Table F.9: Public Enterprises financial data (T$ million, 2011/12) Public enterprise Tonga Power Limited Tonga Communications Corporation Tonga Broadcasting Corporation Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Limited Ports Authority of Tonga Tonga Airports Limited
1
Net profit after tax 2.5 1.9 -0.1 1.2 -0.8 1.2 -0.9
Subsidy 2
Dividend 0.9
3
Notes: As public enterprise financial statements are not all prepared in the same format, EBITDA is difficult to calculate on a comparable basis. 2 Waste Authority Limited normally receives an annual subsidy (T$0.50 million in 2010/11) but this was not paid in 2011/12, possibly due to funding being received from aid sources in that year.
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There has been improvement in the performance of Public Enterprises since the NIIP2010 report, with more recording profits and more paying dividends to Government (despite the continuing fragility of the economy and difficult business environment). One encouraging indicator of the health of the Public Enterprise model in Tonga is the availability of annual reports and financial statements (in either draft or audited form) for 2011/12 for all Public Enterprises just a few months after the end of the financial year, with performance monitoring then undertaken by the Ministry of Public Enterprises. In terms of financial performance, Public Enterprises lend themselves to the following classification: Large and strong: those with revenues over T$20 million, with significant equity and asset bases, recording profits, and EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation) over T$5 million. Tonga Power Ltd (TPL) and the Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC) fall into this category, though it is noted that TCCs revenues have declined in recent y ears due to competition in the mobile telephone market, and cash reserves have declined as these have been used to finance investment. Medium and capable: those with revenues in the T$5 to T$10 million range, EBITDA in the T$1 to T$4 million range, and relatively stable performance. Ports Authority of Tonga (PAT), Tonga Airports Ltd (TAL) and the Tonga Water Board (TWB) fall into this category. PAT shows only very modest growth in revenues but remains profitable; TAL is not currently profitable due to high depreciation provisions on a large asset base, while the TWB has moved up to this category since the NIIP2010 analysis due to growth in revenues through improved collection procedures. Small and marginal: those with revenues less than T$5 million, breaking even at best, with EBITDA near 0. The TBC and Water Authority Ltd (WAL) fall into this category. The TBC shows stable performance and carries out an important social function without Government subsidy, while WAL has experienced difficulties in revenue collection (and receives a subsidy in performing a service with important social and economic benefits to the community).
Table F.10 summarises the current value of infrastructure assets managed by Public Enterprises, and their average level of expenditure on capital and maintenance (averages are used as capital expenditure varies significantly from year to year, while maintenance expenditures are not fully reflected in the financial statements of Public Enterprises and averages may provide more reliable estimates). Over recent years, Public Enterprises have on average spent around T$15 million each year on capital investment (mix of larger and smaller projects), and around T$4 million on maintenance (but this understates actual maintenance spending because maintenance allocations identified in Public Enterprise financial statements normally cover only materials and outsourced services used in maintenance and do not capture other inputs such as in-house labour).
Table F.10: Public Enterprises infrastructure assets (T$ million) Public enterprise Tonga Power Limited Tonga Communications Corporation Tonga Broadcasting Corporation Tonga Water Board Waste Authority Limited Ports Authority of Tonga Tonga Airports Limited Infrastructure assets (2011/12) 58.2 36.4 3.0 16.4 1.4 18.4 34.6 Capital expenditure (annual average1) 4.4 5.5 0.1 1.7 0.1 1.4 2.3 Maintenance expenditure2 (annual average1) 2.5 0.6 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.5 0.1
Notes: 1 Annual average over the four year period 2008/9 to 2011/12, where available. 2 Maintenance allocations identified in public enterprise financial statements normally cover only materials used in maintenance and do not capture other inputs such as labour. Source: Annual reports of public enterprises
An indicative analysis of the borrowing capacity of Public Enterprises is shown in Table F.11. Based on these estimates, only TPL, the TCC, and, PAT have capacity to self-fund investments of any scale through commercial finance.
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Table F.11: Public Enterprises indicative borrowing capacity (2011/12, T$ million) Item EBITDA 1 Shareholder Funds Estimated Return on Equity Required Dividend Free Funds Min Debt Service Cover Ratio 2 Debt Service Interest Rate (No Govt Guarantee) Estimated Debt Carrying Capacity Existing Term Liabilities Indicative Borrowing Capacity Notes:
1
TPL A B C D E F G H I J K IJ G/H E/F BxC A-D 9.1 47.8 10% 4.8 4.3 1.5 2.9 13% 22.1 11.1 11.0
TCC 6.2 44.2 10% 4.4 1.8 1.5 1.2 13% 9.3 3.6 5.7
TWB 2.7 11.2 10% 1.1 1.6 1.5 1.1 13% 8.1 9.3 0
PAT 3.3 16.7 10% 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.1 13% 8.3 4.2 4.1
As the accounts of Public Enterprises are not yet fully standardised, it is difficult to calculate EBITDA with confidence, but the information is sufficient to draw some general conclusions regarding debt carrying capacity of the Public Enterprises. The Debt Service Cover Ratio is the ratio of principal and interest payment divided by cashflow available for debt service. This is an important financial test for banks.
Further analysis of the ability of Public Enterprises to self-fund capital and maintenance expenditures is provided in Annex E dealing with the life cycle costs of infrastructure assets.
Table F.12: Development partners involved in infrastructure Development partner Programming process Recent and planned support for infrastructure IFC Loan to Digicel Tonga. Tonga Post Tsunami Reconstruction. Pacific Islands Regional Connectivity (Tonga Broadband Connectivity). Transport Sector Consolidation Project (TSCP), and transport follow-up. Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM). Pacific Islands Aviation Investment Program (including funding for Fuaamotu and Vavau airports). Tonga-Fiji Submarine Cable Project. Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project Phase 2. Sustainable off-grid power systems. Renewable Energy Project Phases 1 and 2. Grant co-financing of the WB-led Transport Sector Consolidation Project (TSCP), ADB-led Nukualofa Urban Development Sector (NUDS) Project, WB-led Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM) Institutional and Regulatory Framework Strengthening Project, and assistance to TERM Implementation Unit through PIAC. Upgrading of village water supplies. Replacement inter-island ferry. Vavau waste management. Small scale village water supplies. Off-grid solar power systems and village power supplies. Expansion of capacity of solar farm and compensation capacity. Concessional loans for Nukualofa Reconstruction (Vuna Wharf component) and Roads Improvement. Vaipua Bridge, Vavau. Approx. value (T$ million) 11 8 17 7 8 47 17 10 8 6
World Bank
Country Partnership Strategy (2007-12) and Country Operations Business Plan (201315).
Australia
27
Japan
Project identification within a development assistance framework (current focus on climate change adaptation, disaster management, and the environment). Respond to requests from the Government.
25 3 2 12 24 116 8
China
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Development partner
Programming process
Recent and planned support for infrastructure Solar generation farm Tongatapu. Tonga village network upgrade (with World Bank and EU). Eua airport runway rehabilitation. Other involvement in infrastructure related activities: - Meridian operating costs (status: active) - Major energy investment (status: proposed) - Ecocare Pacific Trust: solar PV and ICT program for Tongan schools (status: active) - Pacific maritime safety: Manukau Institute of Technology / NZ Maritime School training for FISA crew in Tonga (status: active) - Pacific maritime safety: technical assistance to Tonga MOT (status: active) Sector budget support with renewable energy as the focal sector.
New Zealand
14 4 4
European Union
National Indicative Programme (2008-13) linked to allocations under the European Development Fund (currently the 10th EDF).
Over recent years, development partners have been very supportive in assisting Tonga with investments in the infrastructure sector. Government expects that support will continue to be available, provided that it can be demonstrated that infrastructure investments are well managed and maintained. Beyond current commitments, development partners do not have specific forward allocations dedicated to infrastructure. One opportunity that may emerge is a regional maritime initiative which could fund improvements in port infrastructure.
F.6: Funding for climate change adaptation and disaster risk management
Due to the high level of climate and natural disaster vulnerability of Pacific countries, the region has been a focus of climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk management (DRM) support for many donors. An inventory of 1 ongoing CCA and DRM projects included in the Strategic Program for Climate Resilience (SPCR) indicates that since 2007, between T$3.5 and T$5.0 million has been provided to Tonga. The majority of this support has been in technical assistance (i.e. policy development, capacity building, and institutional reform) or community level adaptation works. To date there has been no significant investment support for infrastructure resilience building in Tonga. The recently secured contribution of T$1.1 million from the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) to contribute to the construction of foreshore protection in north-eastern Tongatapu is one of the first such operations. The most significant donors in the CCA and DRM domain over the last five years have been the Asian Development Bank (ADB),
1
Asian Development Bank, Strategic Program for Climate Change Resilience for the Kingdom of Tonga (2012).
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Global Environment Facility (GEF), the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Much of the support has been channelled through regional initiatives coordinated by the Secretariat for the Pacific Community (SPC)/Applied Geoscience and Technology Division (SOPAC), or the South Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP). In recent years the funding available for CCA and DRM activities has increased. Traditional donors are paying greater attention to the mainstreaming of climate issues in their operations and are providing enhanced support for targeted CCA and DRM activities. A number of new funding sources that focus on CCA related interventions have also been created both at the national and international level. The Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) is a multi-donor source of financing, managed by the World Bank (WB). The framework for the PPCR support in Tonga was approved in April 2012 with the endorsement of the country specific Strategic Program for Climate Resilience (SPCR) by the Climate Investment Fund. A provisional budget of T$26 million for PPCR implementation in Tonga was identified, and an additional T$9 million has since been earmarked for Tonga. The SPCR addresses hard and soft climate resilience building activities for the infrastructure sector. Detailed project preparation is expected to commence in early 2013 and discussions with the team responsible for leading this exercise indicate that climate-proofing of infrastructure remains a priority theme of future PPCR support. The NIIP will be used as a point of reference in the identification of specific project interventions. The Adaptation Fund supports CCA projects in developing countries such as Tonga that are party to the Kyoto Protocol. Since its commencement in 2010, it has approved around 25 projects with an average budget of T$11.6 million. Projects have typically included a community adaptation component and there are numerous examples of activities in coastal and island communities being supported by the Fund. Pacific region countries including Fiji, the Cook Islands, and the Solomon Islands have submitted successful projects to the Fund. The Joint National Action Plan (JNAP) Secretariat proposes to target the Adaptation Fund to finance the Haapai Community Resilience Project. This approach appears sound given the community-based adaptation nature of the project, its estimated budget of T$11.9 million, and its location in a sensitive coastal zone in a Pacific region of Small Islands Developing States. The Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) is a global platform for knowledge exchange and financial support to climate change initiatives in developing countries. Tonga is already benefiting from support from this fund under the regional SPC led Pacific Small Island States program. Additional support could be sought from this fund for short-term (<1 month), targeted technical assistance activities to support implementation of CCA and DRM projects identified in the NIIP. The types of activities to be supported could include project formulation, policy development, technical advice, feasibility studies, or compliance with climate funding requirements. Future calls for proposals under other funds such as the German International Climate Initiative (e.g. for support foreshore protection works or water resource management works involving ecosystem based elements for a median project financing envelope of T$1.5 million) or the ACP-EU Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (NDRR) Program (e.g. for institutional or minor investments works related to DRM capacity with a general project financing envelope of T$0.4 to T$1.75 million) could be suitable for the financing of CCA and DRM activities contained in this NIIP, and will require monitoring. Evolution of the global Green Climate Fund will also require monitoring as this could become a significant source of adaptation funding in coming years. Many donors and funds are likely to give preference to regional initiatives and Tongas continued active involvement in regional forums on climate change issues will allow future regional opportunities to be identified. CCA and DRM activities are expected to remain high on the agenda of all multilateral and bilateral donors active in Tonga. The upcoming PPCR appears to be the main vehicle of support for CCA specific initiatives by the ADB, WB, and the Australian Government. JICA has indicated its willingness to consider CCA and DRM projects on a case-by-case basis and is now considering two such projects - T$11 million for the eastern Tongatapu coastal protection project, and T$5.2 million for tsunami evacuation infrastructure. Based on the outcomes of discussions, donors in Tonga are expected to look favourably upon infrastructure projects that integrate climate and natural disaster resilience. Contingency funds and insurance schemes are important for providing rapid access to finance for post-disaster response and rehabilitation. Tonga, with the support of the Japanese Government, is a pilot country in the WB led regional Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI) risk insurance scheme that would support post-disaster rehabilitation costs for infrastructure and other sectors. The Tonga National Emergency Fund, established in 2008, is a solely Government financed fund that aims to allow rapid access to financing in the event of a disaster. Strengthening of the operation of the Fund through the creation of formal procedures and an independent Fund Board would allow this fund to be used as a consolidated vehicle for donor contributions to post-disaster
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support, and would enhance harmonisation and coordination in the use of donor and Government funds in the event of a disaster. Table F.13 summarises the sources of funding available or potentially available to Tonga to finance investment in climate change adaptation and disaster risk management (see Annex D for more details).
Table F.13: CCA and DRM funding options for Tonga Source ACP-EU Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (NDRR) Program Adaptation Fund Financing available or potentially available None to date. Feasibility to contribute to NIIP priority project funding Potential source of funding for institutional strengthening and policy activities. Feasibility of accessing funds will depend on timing and priorities of future calls for proposals. Project financing generally of T$0.4 to T$1.75 million. Eligible activities include institutional, community and infrastructure vulnerability reduction measures. Potential source of future financing for both climate proofing of infrastructure and enabling environment improvements. Average project financing T$11.6 million. The PPCR PPTA and implementation is programmed in the ADBs Country Operations Business Plan for 2013 2015 and is likely to represent the major national level support for CCA in the near future. Scope for inclusion in future regional TA activities on climate change. AusAID is contributing to the PPCR program through the ICCAI; discussions with staff in Tonga indicate that while this is likely to be the main source of CCA funding for Tonga in the future, one-off proposals for other activities included in the JNAP will be considered for financing. Tonga does not have a GCCA national programme. Future support possible through regional initiatives or customized short-term technical assistance. Established under auspices of UNFCCC as a major international adaptation fund but not yet operational. CCA support is targeted towards ecosystem based adaptation measures but projects involving financing and insurance pilots, data management and water resources have also been financed. New projects are selected through a two-stage procedure that takes place once a year. Median financing envelope of T$3.4 million. JICA is currently considering proposals submitted by JNAP Secretariat for funding of the eastern Tongatapu coastal protection and part of the tsunami evacuation plan road infrastructure. A decision on these projects is expected in early 2013. JICA has indicated that it will seek to ensure that climate resilience is taken into account in future infrastructure investments. The Fund was established by the Government and is available to fund post-disaster spending with the approval of Cabinet. The potential for this fund to be used as a vehicle for donor support to disaster relief activities could be investigated in the future subject to the development of procedures for fund use and establishment of a Board. Tonga is part of a two-year pilot regional risk insurance scheme. The Government of Japan is supporting the insurance scheme premium payment. Funds would be available to contribute to disaster relief in the event of a tsunami, earthquake or cyclone. Funding from the Pacific Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Program could be channelled through the national emergency fund if appropriate governance structures are put in place. The approved SPCR document (April, 2012) identifies climate proofing of infrastructure and improvements to the enabling environment for PPCR financing. Project preparation will commence in early 2013 and draw on findings of NIIP to set priorities. Provisional budget of T$35 million (USD 20 million). Climate adaptation funding envisaged in current Country Assistance Strategy.
None to date. Participation in regional knowledge generation activities. Contributing to PPCR grant. Participation in regional knowledge generation activities. Contributing to PPCR grant. SPC-GCCA Pacific Small Island States (regional) & GCCA Pacific Islands Forum support programme (regional) None Tonga is a partner country in the Pacific Mangrove Initiative that is being financed until 2013 by the ICI Germany Numerous projects including training and capacity building activities with TMS, rural DRM activities, and earthquake observation assistance. Use for post-emergency relief.
AusAID
Global Climate Change Alliance Green Climate Fund International Climate Initiative (ICI) Germany
JICA
Pacific Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Program (PCRAFI) Pilot Program for Climate Resilience PPCR World Bank
One of the key enabling themes of TSDF 2011-14 is continuing progress to a more efficient and effective government by focusing on its core functions; improving coordination, service delivery and optimising use of resources. Within this enabling theme the Government envisages transferring a range of functions to the private sector via outsourcing, public-private partnerships (PPP), and privatisation, or by taking the intermediate step of transferring them first to Public Enterprise status. The Government recognises that for this approach to work, the capacity of the private sector will need to be enhanced. Private sector involvement in the implementation of this NIIP is likely to focus on design and construction, outsourced operations and maintenance, and specialist technical services. More complex arrangements involving expansion in private sector operation and ownership of infrastructure are unlikely to be realistic prospects during the term of this NIIP, but have potential for the future.
Figure F.1: Range of private sector options for existing and new infrastructure assets
Inputs
Inputs
Phase Design Phase Construction Operation Finance Ownership Design Construction Operation Finance
Ownership
Existing Assets
Existing Assets
N/A
N/A N/A
Contracting Out
N/A Contracting Out N/A Corporatisation N/A Partial Privatisation N/A Privatisation
N/A
N/A
N/A
Corporatisation
N/A
N/A
N/A
Partial Privatisation
N/A
N/A
N/A
Privatisation
N/A
N/A
N/A
New Assets
Contracting Out
Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)
N/A
Private Sector provides input Private Sector provides input Public and Private Sector involvement Public and Private Sector involvement
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Table F.14: Potential funding modalities and sources for high priority proposed projects Sector Energy Ref. E16 E11 T9 Project Outer Islands On-grid Renewable Energy Project Solar Generation (Tongatapu - additional 1-2 MW) Fibre-optic Cable to Haapai, Vavau Communications for Early Warning and Disaster Recovery Outer Islands Water Supply Improvements (Vavau, Haapai, Eua) Expand Nukualofa Water System to Growth Areas New Landfill or Transfer Station on Haapai Outer Islands Roads Upgrading Program Maritime Sector Safety and Resilience Program Resurfacing Haapai Runway, Apron, Taxiway New Control Tower for Fuaamotu Disaster Response and Evacuation Infrastructure Coastal Protection Eastern Tongatapu 9 24 30 6 15 11 4 10 20 9 7 12 15 Capital cost (T$ million) Potential funding modality Grant from DP Grant from DP TBD2 Grant from DP Grant from DP Grant from DP and/or PE self-finance Grant from DP Grant from DP Grant from DP Grant from DP Grant from DP and/or PE self-finance Grant from DP Grant from DP
Telecommunications
T10 W3
Multi-sector
Maintenance of existing and new infrastructure is a high priority. As noted above, Government policy is that the cost of operations and maintenance of economic infrastructure should be funded from user charges wherever possible. Government intends to work closely with Public Enterprises, the private sector, and development partners to lift the overall performance of the infrastructure sector, and as a minimum, achieve self-funding of operations and sustainable maintenance by Government and Public Enterprises. In particular, appropriate maintenance expenditure levels need to be established, which means having effective asset management plans in place and then ensuring that service prices include provision for maintenance. Improvements in asset management systems are being trialled at the TWB and WAL under the Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project (NUDSP), and the intention is that these improvements may be expanded to other Public Enterprises. Stronger Public Enterprises such as TPL already have effective asset management systems, and TPL is considering further investment in this area to better integrate asset management and financial management systems. Taking these factors and the above analysis of potential funding sources into account, an indicative funding strategy has been developed. Table F.15 shows the total demand for infrastructure finance and an indicative projection of the sources of finance over the five year period 2013/14 to 2017/18. The analysis is based on the following key assumptions: All of the underway, committed, and proposed high priority investment projects and complementary initiatives go ahead as planned. As shown in Tables F.4 and F.15, this will involve around T$385 in new investments, T$15 million in complementary initiatives, and around T$70 million in maintenance of new and existing assets over the five year period. Improving Budget conditions should enable Government to make a small contribution to infrastructure investment, estimated at around T$1 million per year; and to increase spending on maintenance of outer islands ports to sustainable levels, either through direct Budget allocation and/or improved cost recovery. Investigation of improved mechanisms for management and financing of outer islands ports is a planned complementary initiative of this NIIP. The Road Fund is phased in as approved and as an interim measure, some top-up funding will be available from Budget or other sources during the phase-in period. When fully functional, the Road Fund is expected to contribute around T$6-7 million in dedicated funding for road maintenance. However, during the phase-in period, there may be some increase in the road maintenance backlog (estimated at T$5-9 million) that would be progressively cleared in later years.
The financing modality of this project will be determined whether or not this project will be linked to the proposed extension of the fiber-optic cable from Tongatapu to Samoa.
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Public Enterprises continue strengthening their financial performance, and cover required maintenance and make infrastructure investment from their own resources. Based on current levels of expenditure (see Annex E) and assuming some strengthening in financial resources, Public Enterprises should be able to lift spending on infrastructure, and contribute around T$35 million of spending on required maintenance; and around T$80 million to financing capital expenditure in infrastructure over the five year period. This includes contributions to NIIP2013 high priority projects, to major investment projects already underway or committed, and to planned smaller investments that are part of the Public Enterprises own investment program. Funding from Development Partners for economic infrastructure continues at around recent levels, but the mix of sources may change. As shown in Table F.12, development partners are contributing roughly T$380 million to recent and planned infrastructure projects. If a similar (or slightly lower) level of funding is maintained, it is of the right order of magnitude to assist with financing capital expenditure under NIIP2013. With Governments no new loans policy in place, this may require an increase in grant finance to make up for lower utilisation of concessional loan finance, and a greater contribution from new sources, including regional and global funds, such as growing support for CCA/DRM activities. Government will take a lead role in facilitating CCA/DRM investments, a key emerging priority in the NIIP process.
Table F.15: Indicative infrastructure budget for 2013/14 - 2017/18 (T$ million) Funding Source Demand for Funding 385 15 70 470 Government 5 35 2 40 35 115 Public Enterprises 80 Development Partners 300 15 315
Notes: 1 Complementary initiatives will also require significant in-kind support from Government and Public Enterprises. 2 Possible areas of shortfall here as the Road Fund is phased in.
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Table G.1: Summary of high priority investment projects Sector Ref E11 Energy E12 E13 T5 Telecoms Water Solid Waste Ports Airports T6 W2 S3 P9 A8 A10 A11 Project Solar generation (Tongatapu - Additional 1MW) Renewable energy pilots (Coconut Oil/land fill gas) Energy Roadmap TGIF Projects Upgrading of TBC Radio Towers International Fibre-Optic Cable + T7 Local Reticulation of High Speed Internet Upgrade Tongatapu (wells, storage, distribution) Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility Inter-island port and terminal upgrades Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway Resurfacing of Vavau runway, apron, taxiway Resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, taxiway Total high priority proposed projects 1.5 60.0 8.0 6.5 4.0 10.0 28.0 4.0 7.0 146 Estimated Cost (T$million) 14.0 3.0 tbd 2011-2015
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Table G.2: Summary of NIIP2010 priority projects and complementary initiatives by theme Theme Sector Priority Investment Projects Energy Roadmap implementation Renewable energy installations (solar T$14m) and pilot plants (biogas, coconut T$3m) Infrastructure components of the Energy Roadmap demand-side management program Tonga Green Incentive Fund (infrastructure components) Telecoms Ports Better Access to Markets Under-sea optic fibre cable linking Tonga with international networks (T$60m) Upgrading of TBC AM radio transmitter (T$1.4m) Rehabilitate outer island ports to improve safety/reliability/ efficiency and support economic development (follow-up to immediate works to reconfigure ports for the new ferry) (T$10m) Resurface airport runways (Tongatapu T$28m, Haapai T$4m, Vavau T$7m) Complementary Initiatives Energy Roadmap implementation Technical assistance for policy, legal, regulatory adjustments DSM and other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap Tonga Green Incentive Fund (other components) Improved fuel supply chain and price stability (e.g. hedging, upgrade tank farm, etc) Local reticulation of high speed internet by appropriate technology (such as cabling) Private sector and Government initiatives that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access (such as the E-Government Initiative) Develop post harvest facilities (handling, storage, processing) in conjunction with inter-island and international ports so that fishing and agricultural produce can be prepared, processed and stored for export and domestic markets. (initial support by EU) Update the policy environment for domestic aviation (study supported under the TSCP program). Governments response to the TSCP recommendations may require the support of specialist technical assistance. Develop post harvest facilities (handling, storage, processing) in conjunction with airports (initial support by EU) Prepare a roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including waste water and drainage. The roadmap should address institutional responsibilities in the water and waste sectors, including an organisational and business model for managing urban drainage the TWB financial and pricing model and revenue collection; drainage plan for Nukualofa; a water and drainage investment plan for the next 10 years. Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses current issues and required improvements to the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a 510 year investment plan. Institutional reform to clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities across all sectors. Develop a national policy for strategic asset management, that promotes asset management as a core function of agencies and incorporates a longer-term view of infrastructure needs and asset management. Investigate the potential for establishing a multi-sector regulatory regime that reviews and make recommendations regarding pricing of common-user services (power, water, waste, telecom wholesaling) Implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery (study supported under the TSCP program). Governments response to the TSCP recommendations may require the advisory support of specialist technical assistance. Implement new institutional/financial arrangements for sustainable management and maintenance of domestic ports.
Energy
Airports
Water Better Management of the Water and Waste Cycle Solid Waste
Accelerate the existing program to rehabilitate and upgrade water supply systems (especially Nukualofa) to increase efficiency, reduce losses etc. (T$6.5m)
Delay new infrastructure investments, pending the results of the proposed sector roadmap New semi-aerobic landfill at Vavau, depending on the outcome of the sector roadmap (T$4m) Other recommendations of the sector roadmap
All Sectors Better Asset Management Roads No additional priority projects over the next five years. The priority is to complete the projects already underway or committed
Domestic Ports
The overall picture is of a high success rate in terms of attracting funding and moving forward with implementation: Eight of the 12 priority projects have committed funding and are at various stages of implementation. Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM) projects are taking longer than expected to start implementation, but are still in the pipeline. The Inter-island Port and Terminal Upgrades project has not progressed as envisaged under NIIP2010, but other activities are underway to address many of the urgent infrastructure issues. This includes basic upgrades that were undertaken to accommodate the new ferry with funding from the Government of Tonga. Urgent safety-related deficiencies (especially navigational aids) are being addressed under the World Bank (WB)-funded Transport Sector Consolidation Plan (TSCP). Further upgrades may occur as part of a proposed WB-funded regional maritime safety and investment project that is currently under discussion. Only the Resurfacing Haapai Airport Runway project has not progressed. This project was considered under the WB-funded Pacific Aviation Investment Plan (PAIP), but could not be accommodated within the available funding envelope, and as a domestic airport, Haapai does not have a regional aviation role.
Completing the implementation of these projects is a high priority, but overall it means that a largely new set of priority investment projects can be expected for the NIIP2013.
Table G.3: Summary of status of high priority investment projects Status Estimated Cost (T$ million 2010) Updated Cost (T$million 2 012)
Operational Committed Underway Feasibility Approved
Sector
Source of Funding
Type of Funding
Notes
Energy
14.0
6.4
UAE
Grant
24.0 Renewable energy pilots (Coconut Oil/ landfill gas) (TERM) Energy Roadmap TGIF Projects (TERM)
3.0 tbd
3.0 tbd
ICU/ Korea Broadcasting Commission ADB, World Bank, TCC TCC ADB/AUSAID JICA
Second array (0.5MW) underway on Vavau with grant funding from UAE (Abu Dhabi). Additional 1-2MW of solar arrays on Tongatapu are under discussion with JICA and other Development Partners. Possible 2013/14 start. Research and feasibility studies underway. Possible 2013/14 start Research and feasibility studies underway for establishment of the TGIF. Possible 2013/14 start. Completed 2011 Expected completion 2013 Progressing in advance of Cable completion. Nukualofa Urban Development Sector Project Project changed to upgrading of existing landfill instead of new landfill Basic upgrades were undertaken to accommodate the new ferry and urgent safety-related deficiencies are being addressed under TSCP. Further upgrades expected to be grant funded by a WB Regional maritime safety and Investment project that is currently under discussion. Additional CCA-related investments may also be funded under an ADBadministered PPCR project. Part of PAIP (Pacific Aviation Investment Program) Part of PAIP (Pacific Aviation Investment Program) No funding source currently identified.
Telecoms
Upgrading of TBC Radio Towers (TBC) International Fibre-Optic Cable (TCL, TCC) + Local Reticulation of High Speed Internet (TCC) Upgrade Tongatapu (wells, storage, distribution) (TWB) Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility (MLECCNR)
Ports
10.0
Airports
Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway (TAL) Resurfacing of Vavau runway, apron, taxiway (TAL) Resurfacing Haapai runway, apron, taxiway (TAL)
Grant Grant
The breakdown of funding sources for NIIP2010 priority investment projects is shown in Table G.4. The main features of the funding split are: grant from Development Partner is by far the major source of funding for all projects, except local reticulation of high-speed internet access which is being self-funded by the Tonga Communications Corporation (TCC) and others from internal resources. This highlights the success of the NIIP2010 in terms of facilitating dialogue with Development Partners; the TCC also has a significant equity shareholding in the International fibre-optic cable project; and other inputs from the Government of Tonga and Public Enterprises are small and generally in the form of inkind support or revenue-forgone in taxes.
This is consistent with the NIIP2010 funding strategy and the Governments financial position.
Table G.4: Source of funding for priority investments Development Partners CAPEX Concessional Loan Grant 3
Project Solar generation (Tongatapu) Coconut Oil/waste Pilot Plant Implementation of Energy Roadmap (TGIF) Upgrading of TBC Radio Towers International Fibre-Optic Cable Local reticulation of high speed internet Upgrade Tongatapu water supply Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility Outer-island Port Upgrades Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, etc Resurfacing of Vavau runway, etc Resurfacing Haapai runway, etc Sole source of finance Principal source of finance Medium source of co-financing Smaller source of co-financing Not a source of finance
Internal Finance
GoT Budget 1
TA & Other
Commercial Finance
1 2 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
3 3 3 3 1 3 3
4 3 2 1 -
It is likely that many of the complementary initiatives in NIIP2010 will continue to be strong candidates for priorities in NIIP2013.
Table G.5: Status of NIIP complementary initiatives Sector Complementary Initiatives Energy Roadmap implementation Technical assistance for policy, legal, regulatory adjustments Energy DSM and other non-infrastructure aspects of the Energy Roadmap Tonga Green Incentive Fund (other components) Improved fuel supply chain and price stability (e.g. hedging, upgrade tank farm, etc) Progress Underway. TA resources provided by PIAC, ADB, WB and others Underway. TA examining technical and institutional options is underway as part of an ADB regional Energy Efficiency project. Underway. Research TA is underway examining options for establishment of the TGIF. Possible 2013/14 start for the Fund. Underway. Cabinet has established a WG to research and analyse options; test the market; and recommend a preferred model. Work is well advanced but no timeframe for implementation of reforms. Underway. Investment project self-funded by TCC (see investments Table) Partial progress. E-Government initiative is building momentum, but little sign of private sector initiatives outside of the internet/mobile phone market. Private sector appears to be adopting a wait and see approach. Partial progress. Groundwork was undertaken for water supply roadmap during preparation of the ADB NUDSP and is expected to be completed during NUDSP implementation starting 2012. No progress on waste water and drainage. Partial progress. Groundwork was undertaken for reform roadmap during preparation of the ADB NUDSP and is expected to be completed during NUDSP implementation starting 2012. No progress on waste water and drainage.
Telecommunications
Building on the High Speed Internet Opportunities Local reticulation of high speed internet by appropriate technology (such as cabling) Private sector and Government initiatives that take advantage of opportunities emerging from improved internet access (such as the E-Government Initiative)
Water
Solid Waste
Sector Roadmap Prepare a roadmap for the Water Sector that examines the full water cycle, including waste water and drainage. Sector Roadmap Prepare a sector roadmap that addresses current issues and required improvements to the institutional, financial and operational model for the sector and provides a 5-10 year investment plan. Policy Environment Update the policy environment for domestic aviation (study supported under the TSCP program). Governments response to the TSCP recommendations may require the support of specialist technical assistance. Post-Harvest Facilities Develop post-harvest facilities (handling, storage, processing) in conjunction with airports (initial support by EU) Road Maintenance Funding Implement new arrangements for sustainable road maintenance funding and delivery (study supported under the TSCP program). Governments response to the TSCP recommendations may require the advisory support of specialist technical assistance. Institutional Arrangements Implement new institutional/financial arrangements for sustainable management and maintenance of domestic ports.
Completed. Aviation Sector Study, including recommendations about the policy environment and sector reform was completed under TSCP in early 2012.
Aviation
Partial progress. Attention has focused on post-harvest facilities at sea ports, see below. Underway. TSCP has prepared options for establishment of a Road Fund which is the approach favoured by Government. An Government WG has been established (with support from TSCP) to prepare options and mechanisms for establishing a Road Fund. The target is to have the Fund in operation by 2013/14. Underway. The Government Working Group on Government Structural Reform has indicated that the primary role of MOI is policy, planning and regulation and service functions should be transferred or outsourced. The MOI reform review undertaken by the TSCP Change Management consultant has recommended that all domestic ports should be transferred to Ports Authority Tonga (PAT), but the option of community ownership of some outer islands ports has been raised as alternative to PAT.
Roads
Ports
Sector
Complementary Initiatives Post-Harvest Facilities Develop post-harvest facilities (handling, storage, processing) in conjunction with inter-island and international ports so that fishing and agricultural produce can be prepared, processed and stored for export and domestic markets. (initial support by EU) Streamlining Government Systems Institutional reform to clarify and simplify institutional responsibilities across all sectors
Progress Underway. Improved post-harvest processing and storage facilities for agricultural produce (cooling, blast freezing and storage) have been constructed at Nukualofa and Vavau ports with assistance from EU and additional inputs from AusAID. Underway. The Government WG on Government Structural Reform has delivered recommendations on streamlining the institutional structure of Government. These reforms were approved by Cabinet in October 2011 and implementation is underway. Partial. Committed. Effective and appropriately funded maintenance and asset management is recognised in the TSDF as core function and key outcome objective. The ADB NUDSP starting late 2012 includes Technical Assistance for building capacity to develop and implement urban infrastructure asset management plans. It includes targets that preparation of asset management plans is mandatory for all public urban services providers by March 2013 and demonstration asset management plans (TWB, WAL) will be prepared and implemented by July 2013.
Asset Management Policy Develop a national policy for Strategic Asset Management, that promotes asset management as a core function of agencies and incorporates a longer-term view of infrastructure needs and asset management.
All Sectors
Multi-sector Regulator Investigate the potential for establishing a multi-sector regulatory regime that reviews and make recommendations regarding pricing of common-user services (power, water, waste, telecom wholesaling)
Not Adopted. GoT plans for regulatory reform have moved away from this concept.
Overall, there are pockets of expertise in investment project development, contracting, and management, but most major investment projects, especially those involving new technologies or methods, are likely to continue to be implemented with TA support from development partners or equipment suppliers.
In contrast, on the basis of preliminary analysis and interviews undertaken with PE managers, it appears that the financial performance of several (maybe most) Public Enterprises is improving. o TCC, TPL, TAL, and PAT are relatively strong and generally sustaining or improving their financial performance, with capacity to self-fund routine maintenance and small-medium-sized infrastructure. o The TBC and TWL have sufficient cash-flow to cover routine operations and minor maintenance, but continue to struggle financially and have a limited capacity to self-fund infrastructure development. o WAL is still financially weak (requiring subsidy from the Government Budget) but appears to have turned the corner following recent reforms and will receive assistance to further improve its performance under the NUDSP.
Overall, a preliminary assessment of financial capacity to implement the NIIP2010 priority initiatives indicates that: The Government continues to have very limited capacity to finance significant infrastructure investment and loans continue to be not a viable option. PE financial capacity appears to have improved, but the overall assessment from NIIP2010 is unchanged. o The stronger PEs have effective maintenance programs in place and can fully fund routine maintenance and small-medium asset renewal from their own resources. o All PEs would struggle to self-finance investments required to replace or rehabilitate the largest item of infrastructure that the Public Enterprise already owns (such as the airport runway) or is required in order to transform the business (such as an undersea fibre-optic cable). o The weaker PEs struggle to sustain financing of regular maintenance and any new investment.
Overall, it is likely that the short-medium term implication of the NIIP2010 priority investment package is a small reduction in the cost of required sustainable maintenance. However, it is important to distinguish between required spending for sustainable maintenance versus the amount actually spent. In most sectors, actual historical spending has been below the sustainable level. Reduced maintenance requirement in the short term provides breathing space in which to address asset management issues and maintenance budgets, and put in place financial and technical mechanisms for sustainable long term maintenance. Options for sector-specific funding mechanisms for sustainable maintenance will be explored in more detail in the NIIP update.
Sector
Project
Underway
Notes
Solar generation (Tongatapu - Additional 1MW) Energy Renewable energy pilots (Coconut Oil/land fill gas) Energy Roadmap TGIF Projects Upgrading of TBC Radio Towers Telecoms International Fibre-Optic Cable + Local Reticulation of High Speed Internet Water Solid Waste Upgrade Tongatapu (wells, storage, distribution) Vavau Semi-Aerobic Landfill Facility
Completion planned for 2013. Routine maintenance costs are generally small. Maintenance costs selffunded by TPL. Research and feasibility studies underway. Possible 2013/14 start. Maintenance implications will depend on results of the feasibility studies. Research and feasibility studies underway for establishment of the TGIF. Possible 2013/14 start. TGIF involves grants to the community and private sector who will then be responsible for maintenance.
Upgrading completed in 2011. Significant reduction in maintenance costs in the short-medium term. Routine maintenance self-funded by TBC. Completion planned for 2013. Maintenance costs are included in overall business plan and cable supply/maintenance contract. Maintenance self-funded by TCL. Underground cabling with minimal maintenance required in the short-medium term. Routine maintenance self-funded by TCC. To be implemented under the ADB NUDSP. Significant reduction in maintenance costs in the shortmedium term.
Increased maintenance and operational cost due to increased complexity of the landfill structure and operation. No funding identified or timeframe for the proposed port upgrading, but discussions are underway to include some components in a future regional maritime safety program (World Bank). Increasing maintenance required in the short term. Budget funding currently inadequate. In the longer term, it is expected that the outer islands ports will be transferred to PAT, then maintenance will be self-funded by PAT.
Ports
10.0
Resurfacing of Fuaamotu runway, apron, taxiway Resurfacing of Vavau runway, apron, taxiway
38.0 11.0
Pavement rehabilitation expected to be completed in 2013, then significant reduction in maintenance costs in the short-medium term. Routine maintenance self-funded by TAL. Pavement rehabilitation expected to be completed in 2013, then significant reduction in maintenance costs in the short-medium term. Routine maintenance self-funded by TAL. No investment funding identified or timeframe for the pavement resurfacing. Increasing maintenance cost in the short term due to deteriorating condition of the runway. Routine maintenance self-funded by TAL.
Airports
9.0
The greatest risks to infrastructure result from the increase in extremes: more very hot days, increased rainfall intensity, and more powerful cyclones. Coupled with sea level rise, this creates significant challenges for the future of infrastructure planning, development, and management. This has important implications for the NIIP process and highlights the need for a greater emphasis on climate change adaptation (CCA)/disaster risk management (DRM) issues in the NIIP2. The remainder of this section provides an evaluation of the degree to which DRM and CCA issues were considered, either implicitly or explicitly, in the development and implementation of the NIIP2010. The evaluation is based on a review of the NIIP2010 documentation, discussions with stakeholders involved in NIIP2010 development and implementation, and field visits to selected NIIP2010 infrastructure projects that are under development or that have been completed. The NIIP2010 contains very limited reference to DRM or CCA issues. There is reference to the multi-function role that some infrastructure can play in responding to natural disasters (e.g. the importance of AM radio communications for early warning systems (EWSs), or the dual use of roads for evacuation), however the potential dual-use function of infrastructure is not carried forward into the analysis or development of priority projects. There was also no explicit consideration of DRM or CCA issues in the multi-criteria analysis (MCA) that was used to prioritise projects. The climate change mitigation benefits of potential projects are considered in a qualitative manner in the MCA, but there is no link made to CCA. Furthermore, the NIIP2010 contains no explicit consideration of the risks to infrastructure or the ways in which infrastructure investments could be rendered more climate resilient. The NIIP2010 recognised that the Joint National Action Plan on DRM and CCA for 2010 to 2015 (referred to as JNAP) preparation process was being carried out in parallel to its development, and recommends that future revisions of the NIIP address DRM and CCA issues. It contains reference to an unidentified, un-costed climate change adaptation project to be implemented in the medium term, and envisages that future versions of the NIIP will include a priority theme related to DRM and CCA that will be closely aligned with the recommendations of the JNAP. Discussions with Government stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of NIIP2010 revealed a generally high level of awareness of issues related to climate change and natural disasters, but a relatively low awareness of Government policy to address climate change, or of practical solutions to address climate change and natural disaster risks in infrastructure planning and development. Stakeholders indicated that there was no legal obligation for the treatment of climate and natural disaster risks in infrastructure development, and technical capacity to carry out such work was low within sector agencies and Public Enterprises. Stakeholders indicated that the integration of measures into NIIP2010 projects was carried out on a case-by-case basis and was influenced by the skills of the implementing body, and in some cases, the requirements of donors or of international financial partners. Stakeholders indicated that there was no clear framework or systematic approach for climate risk analysis or resilience building in the sector. The survey of selected projects implemented under the NIIP2010 confirmed the findings of the stakeholder consultation in relation to the inconsistent integration of resilience building measures. For example, the AM radio receiver located near Popua on Tongatapu (NIIP2010 Priority Project T5) was reconstructed in the same location
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Pacific Climate Change Science Program, Current and Future Climate of Tonga (2011), www.pacificclimatechangescience.org.
despite flooding, tsunami, and storm surge risks and despite the recognised DRM function of this infrastructure. The fibre-optic cable landing station (NIIP2010 Priority Project T6) also located in a zone subject to flooding, wind damage, erosion, and tsunami risk, yet in this case specific measures were integrated into project design including elevation of sensitive equipment and back-up energy supplies, and integration of cyclone-resilient building design (see Case Study 1). Although no explicit CCA/DRM features have yet been designed into the Tongatapu water supply upgrading project (NIIP Priority Project W2), an ongoing program is underway to monitor salinity levels in underground water and climate change impacts on the well-field (see Case Study 2). Stakeholders indicated a lack of specific technical skills relating to climate resilience building for large-scale economic infrastructure. All stakeholders welcomed the opportunity to include DRM and CCA issues in the updating of the NIIP both as a means of identification of pragmatic and cost-effective measures to address climate change and natural disaster risks in the infrastructure, and as an important step in mainstreaming such issues into Government sector policy.
Based on the observed outcomes of the NIIP2010 and interviews with stakeholders, it appears that the main uses of NIIP2010 have been as a facilitator for the dialog with Development Partners and as a tool for MFNP in screening proposed projects for possible Government support. The NIIP2010 appears to have had less impact as a tool for guiding day-to-day planning and management in each of the infrastructure sectors. In part, this can be attributed to a lack of long-term strategic planning being undertaken within Government infrastructure agencies and some PEs, and of a general lack of awareness of the NIIP2010, as discussed below.
level in Government; and representatives of the private sector, non-government organisations (NGOs), and community. The overall picture from these interviews is of a level of awareness and penetration that diminished with time since the adoption of the NIIP2010 and with distance from MFNP: There is strong awareness within relevant areas of the MFNP and the NIIP provides a useful screening tool for MFNP for proposed projects. Senior staff of agencies outside the MFNP generally have a lower level of awareness of the NIIP, and generally the NIIP has little impact at that level. Ministers/members in the current Government are generally aware of the NIIP but not familiar with its content in detail and its significance in infrastructure planning. NGOs and private sector are generally unaware of the NIIP. The Chamber of Commerce is aware of the NIIP but that awareness does not seem to have penetrated more widely in the private sector. Awareness of the NIIP2010 by the general population is difficult to judge, but appears to be very low, with the exception perhaps of individuals with a direct interest in infrastructure development.
In part, this situation can be linked to a range of factors including availability, access, scope, format, and ownership of the NIIP: The NIIP2010 was prepared in mid-2010, finalised and adopted by Government in late 2010 then endorsed by the new Government. Awareness of the NIIP would have peaked during this period and appears to have diminished over time. The NIIP2010 document is not currently available on Government websites, including the MFNP website. The NIIP2010 is available electronically on the PRIF and AusAID websites, but a web search provides no other links to access the NIIP2010 document. The NIIP document is available electronically on the MFNP servers, but this is not widely known within MFNP and the NIIP document is less available in other agencies. Hard copies of the NIIP document are rare and difficult to find. Restructuring of Government agencies and staff changes at senior levels appear to have contributed to this situation. The NIIP is a large and somewhat intimidating document, and although there is a brief Executive Summary that captures the key priorities and messages, there is no widely available abbreviated version of the NIIP that is targeted at a broad audience. o For the TSDF there is a booklet; version which is simply a statement of the vision, outcome objectives and supporting themes of the TSDF. The content of the NIIP2010 document was generally seen as appropriate in terms of scope and depth, but the view was also expressed during interviews that while material in the NIIP2010 Annexes provides valuable background detail, it is of limited interest/relevance to Government officials in terms of applying the NIIP. o This indicates a need to balance the interests/requirements of different audiences in framing and structuring the NIIP document The MFNP is generally seen as the owner of the NIIP. The NIIP2010 was developed within the MFNP structure and the MFNP is responsible for overall national planning. However, infrastructure is just one of many sectors and macro-economic issues that fall within the responsibility of the MFNP and it appears that the Ministry has not actively promoted the NIIP to a broader audience. With changes in Government structure, in particular the creation of a MOI, there is an opportunity to clarify ownership of the NIIP and allocate responsibility for driving NIIP2013 awareness and implementation.
sector. This section highlights expectations for the NIIP update and areas where the coverage and impact of the NIIP process may be strengthened.
On the whole this means that in the NIIP update, the focus ought to be on the supporting framework for infrastructure investment and management and complementary initiatives that support long term sustainability
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(financial, environmental, operational, institutional). The review of the status of NIIP2010 projects also indicates that many of the large priority projects in the NIIP2010 are already at various stages of implementation. The implementation process for these already funded and underway projects will extend over several years and will occupy a high level of available resources (financial, institutional). Briefly, this means that the NIIP update is likely to have a balance of new investment projects and a consolidation of the impact of past investments; and an increased focus on complementary measures that support the long term sustainability of infrastructure investment.
Another key aspect of the NIIP process is ownership of the NIIP process and document. With changes in Government structure, in particular the creation of a Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI), there is an opportunity to clarify ownership of the NIIP and allocate responsibility for driving NIIP awareness and implementation. The ownership of the NIIP process and responsibility for implementation will be discussed with the Government and resolved as part of the NIIP update preparation. Other related issues, such as the frequency for updating NIIP, will also be addressed as part of the NIIP update preparation.
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